What is the difference between an EIC and an EICR?
Electrical Installation Certificates (EIC) and Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICR) are documents that confirm a safety check has been completed in a privately rented property, but are used in different situations. Since April 2021, all UK landlords must have a valid EICR, but may not need an EIC unless changes have been made to hard-wired electrics.
When is it reasonable for a landlord to refuse a tenant having a pet?
The reasonableness of a landlord refusing a tenant's request to have a pet can vary depending on several factors, including the specific circumstances of the property, and the landlord's policies.
Unreturned keys on check out day
If a tenant fails to return the keys, this is normally taken to mean they have not given up the tenancy and therefore can be open to lots of issues for the landlord, even if the tenant has actually moved out.
Abandonment
If you encounter abandonment in an assured shorthold tenancy, follow our eight steps to appropriately handle the situation.
What methods can I use to recover rent arrears?
Recovering rent arrears in England typically involves following specific legal procedures to ensure that you have a lawful and fair process for collecting the overdue rent.
What is a Rent Tribunal?
A Rent Tribunal, also known as a Rent Board or Rent Commission, is a quasi-judicial body established by local or regional governments to address disputes and matters related to rental housing.
How does a Power of Attorney work?
In the event that a landlord dies or has mental incapacity, if a Power of Attorney (POA) has been set up, the person(s) named as the landlord’s POA can instruct on the landlord’s behalf.
Eradicating vermin in a rented property
The responsibility for eradicating vermin in a rented property is usually with the landlord, although it can vary depending on the specific circumstances and the cause of the vermin infestation.
How to serve a Section 13 notice of rent increase
Section 13 of the Housing Act 1988 allows a landlord to raise the rent on a periodic assured or assured shorthold tenancy by giving the tenant a notice of increase in the prescribed form.
How to start rental repossession proceedings
Starting rental repossession proceedings in England involves following specific legal procedures to regain possession of your rental property from a tenant who has breached the tenancy agreement or is in rent arrears.
How should a tenancy notice be served?
There are two main types of notices that can be used for rental repossession: a Section 8 for tenancy breaches and Section 21 Notice for no-fault evictions. Following the correct steps to serve a notice legally is essential.
When can a tenant change the locks?
Generally, tenants do not have the right to change locks without the landlord's consent but it's crucial that tenants have their statutory right to ‘quiet enjoyment’.
Responding to a Subject Access Request
The Data Protection Act 2018 gives any individual (data subject) the right to request access to all the information held about them. We have outlined the steps you need to take when a request is made in writing by an individual seeking to access their personal data.
How long must a tenant's contents be kept after a bailiff eviction?
When you go to do the check out inspection and discover that the tenant has left a lot of personal belongings inside the property, you must follow proper procedure to ensure those belongings are handled correctly, or risk legal and financial consequences.
EPC requirements for Grade II listed properties
If you're letting a Grade II listed property in the UK, you may be wondering what Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) requirements apply.
Garden alterations
Find out what steps you can take if the tenant has substantially altered the garden without permission.