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You are urged to seek professional advice on all legal issues
With more and more people realising the benefits of buy to let, it’s essential that every landlord is aware of their responsibilities.
An overview of the legal system in England from a tenant’s perspective can be found in the Renting Basics section. This brief article highlights a few other issues of specific issue to landlords.
General points:
- You are legally obliged to let the tenants live peacefully in the accommodation.
- Once a tenancy has been created it cannot be changed to another type of tenancy by or on renewal.
- Never, ever create a tenancy on a casual basis - always have a substantial written agreement which is properly witnessed on signing.
- Make sure that all occupants in your property are documented tenants.
- Never try to force a tenant to leave - a court possession order must always be obtained if the landlord wishes to end a tenancy.
- If in doubt about the financial security of the tenant or for younger tenants always try to obtain a surety agreement (guarantee) from parents or another home-owner willing to stand surety in case of default or damage.
- Always screen and verify tenants very carefully before handing over the keys to your property as you are handing over a very valuable asset when you let out your property.
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