If you’re a landlord, referencing your tenants isn’t just a formality—it’s a critical step that could save you from a world of headaches down the line. While there’s no shortage of opinions floating around in the lettings space, one thing is crystal clear to us: comprehensive referencing is non-negotiable.
Bristol City Council has now approved two significant schemes following last year’s consultation process, both schemes will take effect on August 6, 2024.
A property inspection is a crucial part of the lettings management process. The inspection itself not only ensures that a rental property is well-maintained and adheres to safety standards, but it also serves multiple purposes, including assessing the condition of the property at regular intervals throughout the tenancy, identifying any necessary repairs or maintenance (in a timely manner “a stitch in time”), and making sure that tenants are adhering to the terms of their agreements. When it comes to a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), which often houses unrelated tenants and is therefore considered to be a higher risk, the inspection process becomes even more important due to the increased occupancy and potential for wear and tear.
Top 5 most costly mistakes landlords make
Being a landlord comes with its own set of challenges, and mistakes can be costly both in terms of time and money. Here are five of the most common landlord mistakes that can have significant consequences:
The UK government introduced a significant directive, aimed at addressing issues of damp and mould in rental properties. These new guidelines place a strong emphasis on private landlords, holding them accountable for the condition of their rental units and introducing unlimited fines and (in the most serious of cases) legal action, for those who neglect damp and mould problems. Housing Secretary Michael Gove emphasised that these issues are not the result of ‘lifestyle choices’ but rather the responsibility of landlords to identify and address the root causes, such as structural problems or inadequate ventilation.
