Insights - Landlords

Rent guarantee insurance

End of Furlough Warning for Landlords – Time to Guarantee Rent?

17th February 2021

A leading lettings industry figure has warned landlords that, as the government’s furlough scheme is set to draw to a close in just a few weeks’ time, considering some form of rent guarantee insurance should feature as a priority if they want to plan ahead and avoid financial voids where tenants suddenly become unable to cover their rental payments.

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Can a landlord change the locks?

In What Circumstances can a Landlord Change the Locks?

16th February 2021

When tenants fall into rent arrears or cause damage to a property, it can be tempting for landlords to change the locks to keep them out. However, taking such steps could prove to be a serious mistake, making it all the more difficult to gain the permissions necessary to legally evict a tenant and landing you in trouble with the law. Can a landlord change the locks? Let’s explore the subject in detail.

Running a business from a rented property

Can a Tenant Run a Business from a Rental Property?

9th February 2021

With so many people now working from home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, this does of course raise the question for landlords as to whether tenants should be allowed to start running a business from a rented property. Let’s take a look at what the law says, and the important considerations every landlord needs to make when considering allowing tenants to use their home as a place of business.

Property investment in Croydon

A Guide to Property Investment in Croydon

8th February 2021

For the property investor seeking lucrative buy to let opportunities in London, one area that warrants consideration has to be Croydon. With purchase prices in some parts of the London borough lower than much of the rest of the capital, and with yields averaging a healthy 4.5 per cent, plus a host of prime location benefits, it really is worth discovering what property investment in Croydon has to offer.

Breathing space

Breathing Space: Debt Respite Scheme to Prevent Landlords From Chasing Unpaid Rent

3rd February 2021

From 4th of May 2021, a new government scheme will come into force that will give anyone with a problem debt a legal right to protection from creditors. This includes tenants who are in rent arrears with a debt owed to their landlords. The ‘Breathing Space’ arrangement, otherwise known as the Debt Respite Scheme, will allow debtors time to find a solution to their financial issues.

How much rent should I charge

A Guide to Valuing Your Buy-to-Let Property for Rent

26th January 2021

Location, property size and condition and the features of the home are all factors involved in calculating how much rent to charge. Your online calculation really is only an indication and shouldn’t be considered as a be all and end all rate. Let’s take a look at the key points to consider when setting your rental rate.

Landlord boiler breakdown cover

Boiler Breakdown Cover: A Guide for Landlords

25th January 2021

One of the most costly and time consuming issues for any landlord has to be dealing with boiler callouts. One way of avoiding surprise costs and all the hassle associated with boiler repairs is to take out landlord boiler breakdown cover. Here’s how it works, what it includes, what it doesn’t include, and what to consider when arranging cover.

Renting furnished or unfurnished

Renting Property: To Furnish, or Not to Furnish?

19th January 2021

One of the key questions for landlords when preparing to rent out a property has to be, to furnish, or not to furnish? It is certainly an important consideration, as it will have a direct impact on the type of tenant you attract, and the amount of rent you can charge. Let’s explore the pros and cons of renting furnished or unfurnished so that you feel ready to make the ultimate choice for yourself.

Tenant not paying rent

How to Deal with Tenant Rent Arrears

18th January 2021

Tenants not paying rent is an all too common issue, especially during challenging economic times. But there are some simple steps to follow that will help you navigate your way through the problem, and there are even some strategies that are designed to prevent unpaid rent in the first place.

Leasehold reform

Government Confirms Major Leasehold Changes on the Horizon

11th January 2021

Significant changes to English property law and specifically leasehold legislation are set to be introduced as the Government is poised to radically overhaul the system, making it easier and less costly for landlords and property owners to extend leases or convert them to freehold or commonhold in the future.