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Insights - Letting
Right to Rent Checks Now Mandatory for ALL New Tenants
From 1 July 2021, all landlords must check the immigration status of prospective tenants, no matter their nationality. Citizens of the European Economic Area (EEA) and members of their families must now hold an immigration status in the UK, just the same as any foreign national. Whilst an EEA passport or national ID card was previously adequate to prove a right to rent, these can no longer be relied upon.
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A Landlord’s Solution to Preventing Duplicate Keys
One of the most worrying issues for landlords has to be unauthorised key duplication. It can be a significant security risk, not just for the property owner, but also for inbound tenants. Thankfully there is a solution. Registered key systems prevent duplicates being made without an authorised signature. Let’s take a look at how they work, and how this security measure can provide peace of mind for landlords.
Letting to Disabled Tenants: A Landlord’s Guide
Landlords must comply with the Equality Act 2010, and should be aware of their legal responsibilities regarding disabled tenants who may need alterations made or be provided with some form of assistance to allow them to live comfortably in the home they are renting. But just what should landlords be doing to accommodate disabled tenants and comply with the law?
Tenant Referencing Crisis on the Cards as COVID Damages Thousands of Credit Scores
The National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA) is warning of a looming tenant referencing crisis as thousands of tenants are facing damaged credit scores caused by legal action over rent arrears in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. As this crisis intensifies and no government help seems forthcoming, landlords are wise to seek a reliable way to guarantee their rent.
Blind Safety in Rental Property: What Landlords Need to Know
According to the Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), at least 35 young children across the UK have died because of looped cords on blinds since 2001. Whilst new blinds are manufactured to improved safety standards, it is reckoned that there are millions of older blinds in homes across the country. For this reason, it is crucial that landlords take steps to ensure blind safety, particularly when renting to families with children.
Landlords Encouraged to Seek Alternatives to High Rent Advance Demands
According to a Radio 5 podcast, increasing numbers of landlords are asking tenants with a poor credit score or lack of renting history to part with six months’ rent in advance. The situation has been made worse by the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, with incomes hit hard. But the NRLA advises against demanding such high advances, suggesting that an alternative guaranteed rent solution is sought.
Is Property Investment More Lucrative Post-COVID?
Research by a leading buy-to-let mortgage lender has revealed the impact that COVID-19 has had on the property investment market and, based on their findings, it’s looking like now, as restrictions start to ease, could be a good time to consider investing.
Could ‘Green Mortgages’ be the Solution for Landlords Looking to Improve EPC Ratings?
With the government’s Green Homes Grant off the agenda, and new energy efficiency rules for rental property on their way in, there is a growing need for some form of funding to help landlords meet their regulatory responsibilities. One such solution could be the ‘green mortgage’. Here’s the lowdown on these loans that are designed to support sustainable home improvements.
How to Choose the Right Structure for Your Buy to Let Business
Whether your buy to let venture involves a single property, or you have a growing portfolio, it is worth weighing up your options as to the best way to structure your property business. Some structures will be more tax efficient than others. Here’s an overview of what’s available so you can start to look more closely at what could work best for you.
Essential Landlord Tips for Buying Investment Property at Auction
There are often many bargains to be had at property auctions, especially for the buy-to-let investor. But there are many things to consider, and indeed beware of too. If you are considering purchasing your next investment property at auction, we have some tips for you to help you avoid the risks, and make the most of the opportunity ahead.
