Emergency legislation relating to residential possession proceedings has been introduced by the government. This month, Anna Pettinger outlines how it continues to impact landlords in these uncertain times… My tenants haven’t paid rent since February. Am I likely to regain possession of my property any time soon? As I discussed Read more…
The Coronavirus epidemic is impacting on all aspects of our economy and residential lettings are no exception. This month, Anna Pettinger outlines emergency changes made to the tenancy laws… My tenants are already behind with their rent and I’m worried the situation will only worsen during the Coronavirus crisis. Can Read more…
The safety of tenants is of increasing interest to the government. This month, Anna Pettinger highlights new legislation concerning electrical standards that is likely to be approved and come into force soon… New electrical safety legislation has been drafted recently and was presented to parliament last month. Although the Electrical Read more…
Evicting tenants is an expensive and lengthy business. This month, Anna Pettinger highlights one way to speed the process up… My tenant stopped paying his rent months ago. Do I have to use a bailiff to evict him now I have a possession order, or are there any other options? Read more…
In the current climate, houses of multiple occupancy (HMOs) are an attractive proposition for private landlords, but how do you prepare one for sale? This month, Anna Pettinger highlights the importance of following the correct eviction procedure… I own a property that houses five tenants, but I want to sell Read more…
Pets are often unwelcome house guests in rented property. This month, Anna Pettinger discusses how landlords can protect themselves against the potential damage dogs can inflict… I have just discovered my tenants have purchased a dog without my consent. Can I raise their rent to cover any damage it causes Read more…
I advertised my property for let and a potential tenant was found. Unfortunately, my personal circumstances changed and I had to sell the house. Can the tenant make a claim against me? It is always prudent to ensure a rental property is vacant and fit for human habitation prior to Read more…
Rent payments will soon be much easier to come by if your tenant receives Universal Credit. This month, Anna Pettinger explains how landlords can avoid onerous arrears… My tenant is two months behind with her rent. As she receives Universal Credit, can I request her benefits are paid directly to Read more…
A recent high court ruling has thrown the Right-to-Rent scheme into confusion. This month, Anna Pettinger explains your current legal position… How do I ensure my tenant is entitled to rent in the UK? Am I allowed to request ID documents as evidence? Under section 22 of the Immigration Act Read more…
I’ve heard the government is to ban letting fees. Will this have a direct effect on me as a landlord? The Tenant Fees Bill will be implemented in June (having been postponed from April) and will stop charges being levied against assured shorthold tenancies, including student lets. As such, it Read more…