Smart Blog

Letting and property management agents in the private rented sector who hold client money are now required by law to belong to a government-approved CMP scheme by 1 April 2019. Presently the government has approved the following client money protection (CMP) schemes for letting and property management agents in the …

As of 1 October 2014, it became a legal requirement for all letting agents and property managers in England to belong to one of three Government-approved redress schemes. These are: ~ Property Redress Scheme (PRS) ~ The Property Ombudsman (TPO)a What is the Redress Scheme The service provided by these …

The BBSA (British Blind and Shutter Association) urges all Landlords of homes and publicly accessible buildings to ensure that any cords or chains of window blinds in their properties are not hazardous to babies and small children, the duty of care that landlords have is to their tenants and to …

Case 357 – Some consultants & letting agents misinterpreting landlords responsibilities regarding legionella risks to their tenants Issue that Landlords need to be aware of: Some consultants and letting agents are using the revised L8 ACOP to suggest that new legislation has been imposed on landlords of domestic rented properties …

Just like employers, landlords have certain legal obligations when it comes to fire safety and protection of their properties and the safety of people who reside in their premises. However, it is not as simple as ensuring there is a couple of fire extinguishers to hand – fire safety largely …

According to the most recent data tenants in the private rented sector face a higher risk of electrical shock and fires caused by electrical faults in their homes compared to social housing tenants. As well as making homes safer for tenants, electrical installation improvements benefit the landlord as a material …

The three types of landlord licensing schemes fit into these categories: 1. Mandatory licensing If you’re letting out a large HMO (house in multiple occupation) you are likely to need a licence to do so. Previously, properties over three storeys high that were occupied by five or more unrelated tenants …

Whether it is one tenancy, or one thousand tenancies, all landlords have the same burden of responsibility. What are the responsibilities of the landlord? ✔️keep your rented properties safe and free from health hazards ✔️make sure all gas and electrical equipment is safely installed and maintained ✔️provide an Energy Performance …

Prior to Viewing Screening Before letting a prospective tenant look at the property some landlords screen applicants, in a conversational manner, the answers will tell you a lot and save wasting time on unnecessary viewings. Screening questions might include: ?What is your current living situation? ?Why are you moving? ?When …

✔️Eviction should be a last resort, always try to conflict resolution in the first instance. If rent arrears is the issue, try and agree a repayment plan. ✔️Give your tenants a Section 21 notice if you want the property back after a fixed term ends. Give them a Section 8 …