Insights

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.

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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.

Smoke alarms in rental properties

Smoke Alarms in Rental Properties: What You Need to Know

1st February 2021

All landlords in England have a responsibility under the Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Regulations to ensure smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are provided in private rented property. Read on as we set out in clear, easy steps all you need to know about smoke alarms in rental properties in order to stay compliant and protect your tenants.

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.

Do I pay tax on rental income?

Paying Tax on Rental Income: Advice for Landlords

12th January 2021

Do I pay tax on rental income? It’s a question posed by many would-be or new landlords. It is a good question, but when it comes to taxation of rental income, there is quite a bit to understand. Let’s explore the topic in more detail as we share our experts’ knowledge on the financial side of renting property, together with their top tax tips.