What are the benefits of letting an empty
property?
You can lose over £6000 a year by keeping a home
empty-in rent loss, council tax, insurance, dilapidation and security measures.
There is also the risk of vandalism, squatting and complaints from neighbours.
How long
does a shorthold tenancy have to last?
That is for you to agree with your tenant. You can
agree that it should last for a set period (known as fixed term) or you can
leave it open-ended.
How would I get my property back?
If the tenancy is a shorthold , you can end the tenancy
at any time after 6 months, provided any fixed term you agreed has ended. You
only need to give your tenant 2 months written notice that you want your
property back.
You can end both types of tenancy at any time on
certain grounds (reasons) for possession set out in legislation. These cover
rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, damage by the tenant, etc.
What if the tenant will not leave?
Most tenants do. You can not evict a tenant yourself
but you can apply to the county court to get your property back. In
certain cases you can use an accelerated possession procedure which can avoid
the need for a court hearing.
As a landlord, what would I be responsible
for?
what if the property needs repairs before it can be
let?
Housing associations can help by providing a grant and
managing the property for you. Or you may qualify for a local authority
renovation grant. Your local authority can give details.
Can anyone help me rent my property?
Letting agents can find tenants, start the tenancy,
collect rent or provide a full management service for peace of mind. Some agents
work to specified standards of service such as members of the:
Standards in
accommodations
A major concern of the university accommodation
offices, city councils and students is the gas safety and general security of
student accommodations, almost in some towns landlords will have to confirm to
various standards before their properties can be advertised in student housing
offices.
If you have a property for letting to students, firstly
you should ensure your property is checked for gas safety by a CORGI registered
engineer every year, as most students are aware of the dangers of gas appliances
it may be difficult to rent accommodation that have not be approved. You can
find out more about Gas Safety by going to our special notes regarding Gas
Appliances
Secondly, properties should have doors that are to a
minimum door thickness with provision of spy-holes, and the door locks should be
5 lever to British standard as most insurance companies now insist on these
types of locks.
Thirdly, the property should be kept in good general maintenance
and free from any damp.
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