Landlord Tenant Category

Landlords have a responsibility to ensure their properties are safe for tenants. This includes paying close attention to fire safety. Unlike gas safety or electrical safety, there isn’t a certificate you can obtain that shows unequivocally that your property is safe for tenants, but there are certain things you must do, some of which are mandatory.

A tenancy agreement is a contract between the landlord and the tenant. It sets out in writing all the terms and conditions of the tenancy. This includes how long the tenancy will last, how much rent the landlord expects the tenant to pay, and when these payments are due. Like any other contract, it is legally binding, and if either party breaches the contract, there are consequences. 

Until recently there haven’t been any laws or guidelines regulating electric installations in rental properties. Landlords have been able to deal with problems as and when they arise. Recently, however, more focus has been put on to tenant safety and landlords are now expected to keep the electric installations in their properties safe.

Damp is a common problem in the UK’s rental housing stock. Many landlords can’t or decide not to invest in their properties, leaving tenants to live in cold, damp homes. In areas where demand for rental housing outstrips supply, rogue landlords often get away with housing tenants in sub-standard accommodation. Tenants are often too afraid to complain. 

Fans of smelly blue cheese might not view mould as a problem, but in a home, it is both unsightly and a potential health hazard. Unfortunately, mould infestations are common, especially in damp areas of the home.