Deposits and Disputes

Providing that it is stipulated in the tenancy agreement, a deposit can be withheld to cover any loss incurred by the landlord that is caused by the tenant, such as damage to the property or non-payment of rent. Since 6th April 2007, it has been a legal requirement for landlords who rent a property on an…

Deposit Arbitration

Many landlords believe that the property should be returned to them in the same condition as at the start of the tenancy. Deductions are often claimed from the deposit for minor damage that should be expected in any normal use of the property. Similarly, some landlords might want to replace items in the property which…

Deposits, Disputes and the Power of Inventories

Providing that it is stipulated in the tenancy agreement, a deposit can be withheld to cover any loss incurred by the landlord that is caused by the tenant, such as damage to the property or non-payment of rent. Since 6th April 2007, it has been a legal requirement for landlords who rent a property on…

I don’t need an inventory – the flat’s not furnished

“I don’t need an inventory – the flat’s not furnished” This is something we hear often, but let’s get it straight, an inventory is not a list of furnishings; it’s a detailed schedule of how the property has been provided to the tenant at the start of tenancy Yes, it includes details of any furniture,…

Should I renew my tenancy agreement?

We are often contacted by landlords whose fixed term tenancies are coming to an end, and they’re not sure if they should sign a new contract with the tenants. Here’s a quick run down of what happens at the end of a fixed term tenancy, so you can make an informed decision about whether to…

Legislation Changes for 2018/2019

There are so many changes coming to the lettings industry, we thought it would be useful to provide a brief overview of both the confirmed and proposed changes for 2018/2019. It’s not exhaustive and may be subject to change during the course of the year! How to Rent Guide – 17 January 2018 – England only…

Changes to Gas Safety Rules

We are expecting some (very!) welcome changes to the gas safety rules to come in to force in early April. Landlords will no longer have to wait until the last minute to complete their gas safety certificates, or have to shorten the annual cycle check to comply with the law. Order your gas safety certificate…

New Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards

From 1st April 2018, it will become unlawful to let a property in the private rented sector if it has an energy performance rating below an E on the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). Does this effect me? If you let a residential property in England or Wales, then most probably, yes! The Regulations will apply…

Right to Rent Guide

*UPDATED FOR NEW LEGISLATION STARTING 1ST JULY 2021* Landlords are required by law to check that their tenant or lodger can legally rent their residential property in England. Here’s a quick guide for what you need to do. Although onerous, it’s really not difficult! You must: Check ALL tenants over the age of 18, whether…

East of England has fastest rising rents

Rental growth continues to shift away from London and the south of England, with the east of the country now recording the biggest increases, Your Move says. Data from the estate agent shows that the east of England had the fastest rising rents in October, up 6% to £887, compared with a 2.4% boost across…