The Legal Responsibilities of being a landlord

The Legal Responsibilities of being a landlord

Before you dive in to the buy to let market then it’s important to understand the legal responsibilities that you’ll be taking on.

We’ve put together a short list so that you understand just some the legal implications of being a landlord.

Protect the deposit.

When a tenant pays you their deposit you MUST pay it in to a Government approved deposit protection scheme. This means that they will get their deposit back if they meet the terms of your tenancy agreement and don’t damage the property whilst pay the rent and bills on time. You must put this deposit in the appropriate scheme within 30 days of receiving it.

Stay away.

It may technically be your property but it’s your tenants home and your tenant has a right to live in the property that they are renting without necessary interference. Of course there will be times when you need to access the property (repairs etc) so make sure that you give sufficient notice and arrange a time that is suitable for the tenant, you must never enter the property without consent.

Repairs.

You are responsible for the repairs to the exterior and structure of the property. It is also your responsibly as a landlord to ensure that the equipment for supplying gas, electricity and water are kept in safe working order.

Keeping your tenants safe.

Electrical appliances must be PAT tested and if your property is a home of multiple occupancy (HMO) then you must carry out electrical safety checks every 5 years. Furniture must also meet the fire safety requirements and bedsits need a written fire assessment. Gas appliances also require an annual gas safety certificate.

You must be clear about the rent.

You cannot just up the rent whenever you wish, you have to be upfront about how much the rent is, when it must be paid and how you wish to receive it.

Your tenant must be able to contact you.

Your tenants must have your name and contact details - or if you’re using an agent, the details of the agent to be able to contact you should there be an issue.

If you need to regain possession of your property.

In order to regain possession of your property before the end of the tenancy agreement you must have a solid reason (such as severe rent arrears or illegal activity taking place at the property).

You must follow the correct legal proceedings or your tenant could claim compensation against you.

At Alan Batt Estate Agents we will guide you through the process of letting your property ensuring that all the correct legal proceedings are carried out. With over 30 years of experience, we also understand the many pitfalls and problems landlords can face whilst renting out their properties.

Our superb lettings team go the extra mile to help our landlords avoid common mistakes and create longer and more financially beneficial tenancies.

Our landlords stay with us because they know we're always on hand with expert advice and assistance and are ready to respond to any tenancy issues promptly and effectively.

For more information visit the landlord section on our website.

If you want to discuss any Sales or Lettings issues in our local property market just email on the Ask Alan section of our new website.

http://www.alanbatt.co.uk/about-alan-standish-estate-agents-wigan/ask-alan.html

Alan Batt MRICS

Chartered Valuation Surveyor 

Best Price Specialist Estate Agent