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Frequently asked questions -- For Landlords
We’ll cover here some of the most regularly asked questions
based on years of experience in the property business. This
is not intended to be an endless list – we’d rather meet you
face to face to discuss and answer questions relating to your
individual circumstances.
Why use an agent?
Many landlords let and manage their own properties
without the assistance of an agent. This can work well if you
have the time, knowledge and live close by to your properties.
There are, however, many legal and financial requirements
a landlord must fulfil and failure to adhere to these could
result in you being prosecuted.
In addition we put each tenant through a thorough referencing
process that covers previous address, reliability paying rent,
employment and credit checking. This helps to protect you from
letting your asset to an unsuitable tenant.
Do I tell my mortgage company?
Yes. Different companies have different policies regarding
the proposal to let out a mortgaged property. Contact them early
to ascertain what that policy is.
What do I say to my insurance company?
Be up-front and let them know. There may be an increase
in the premium. If you do not tell them your cover may be invalidated
in the event of a claim.
What do I tell the Inland Revenue?
This all depends on your personal circumstances and whether
you live in the UK or abroad. We recommend taking accountants
advice if you are unsure about the consequences of letting out
your property.
When my property is let what do I still have to budget for?
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Your monthly mortgage
payment |
| • |
Insurance cover for the building
and any of your own possessions |
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Running repairs and maintenance |
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The obligatory landlords’ gas safety
record |
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If the property is empty; water,
gas, electricity, council tax |
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Ground rent and services if the property
is leasehold |
Furnished or unfurnished?
The UK market, outside of the major metropolitan areas such
as London and Manchester is predominantly biased towards unfurnished
lettings. There are no substantial differences in the rental
value to be achieved so we suggest unfurnished is the best way.
The vast majority of tenants expect carpets / hard flooring
and increasingly a fridge and washing machine to be part of
the deal.
Can I decide who becomes a tenant?
Basic issues such as whether you will allow sharers
will be taken into account when we market the property on your
behalf, however you may not discriminate or refuse tenancy on
the grounds of race, sex, religion, ethnic origin, marital status
disability or age
What regulations must I comply with?
The Gas Safety (installations and Use) Regulations 1994
All gas equipment, appliances, flues and pipe work must be checked
and serviced at least every 12 months by a registered CORGI
gas fitter. They will issue a certificate that is lodged with
the agent and copied to the tenant.
The
Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988
All items of furniture that are upholstered or have a filling
must carry permanent labels proving that they comply with the
official fire resistance standards. Items purchased after 1st
April 1990 from known reputable UK sources are likely to meet
this requirement. If they do not, they must be removed from
the property.
The Electrical Equipment
(Safety) Regulations 1994
There is a requirement to ensure all appliances are safe. As
a result we recommend that Landlords have appliances tested
annually by an electrician who is recognised by the NIEIC.
Smoke Detectors and Alarms
All new houses built after June 1992 must have an alarm(s) fitted
as standard on each floor. We strongly recommend detectors are
fitted to properties built before this date.
Landlord
and Tenant Act 1985 (Section 11)
Landlords have a statutory responsibility to maintain and repair
the following:
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The structure and exterior
of the property, drains, gutters and external pipes |
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Installation for the supply of water,
gas, electricity and sewerage |
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Space and water heating appliances |
What if a tenant fails to pay the rent?
We monitor payment through our electronic credit control system.
Should a tenant fail to pay we request them in person and in
writing to bring their account into order immediately. If they
fail to do so it will be necessary to discuss the matter with
the landlord and discuss which course of action to take.
What happens
if a tenant refuses to leave?
You will need to instruct your solicitor to act on your behalf
to issue proceedings to gain possession of the property. We
will assist in those proceedings as much as we are able.
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