The purpose of a Section 8 notice has historically been unclear. This month, Anna Pettinger explains how a legal precedent has now been set, enabling it to finally be defined… My tenants are claiming the Section 8 notice served on them by my managing agent is invalid, as it did Read more…
Concerns about the leasehold system are a hot topic in the press, mainly due to claims of rising ground rents. This month, we discuss the problem and action that is being taken… As leasehold properties are commonplace around here, homeowners, including landlords with houses of this nature, should be aware Read more…
Unfortunately when you rent out a property, it does not always run smoothly. In this month’s column, we look at some of the problems that can arise and possible solutions… Rent arrears If your tenant owes more than eight weeks’ rent, you have a right to take the property back. As Read more…
In the heat of evicting tenants it is hard to keep your head, but taking the law into your own hands can be a costly mistake. A number of cases this year have served as a reminder to landlords that you cannot evict tenants unlawfully without repercussions. In simple terms, Read more…
You are a fortunate landlord if you’ve never had to apply for a possession order. But did you know it could be suspended? In this month’s column, we explains why… When a tenant is in breach of your agreement, you can apply for possession and an order should be granted Read more…
A landmark case has just been decided that tested the boundaries of tenants’ human rights. In this month’s column, we explain what it means for landlords… Last month, the Supreme Court was asked to consider if a possession order granted to a private landlord was in breach of his tenant’s Read more…
All landlords know they need to warn tenants if they want them to leave. In this month’s column, we explain what constitutes serving notice effectively… My tenants are claiming they have not received the official notice I sent requesting they vacate my property. What should I do? One of the Read more…
Apples? Check. Bread? Check. Tenancy agreement? Check? In this month’s column, we explain why a supermarket style tenancy may be best left on the shelf… Assured shorthold tenancies are easy to come by, online and on the high street. Even supermarkets are getting in on the act. But before you Read more…
Being a landlord is easy when everything is running smoothly, but when something breaks down, relations with your tenant can follow quickly. In this month’s column, we unpick the thorny subject of repair and replacement obligations… The cooker is broken in my rented property. Is it my duty to fix Read more…
The first months of the year can be difficult for those who struggle to pay their rent. In this month’s column, we offer advice to landlords and tenants who are trying to recover rent arrears… My advice for tenants It might sound obvious, but if you can’t pay your rent, Read more…