Lettings update
Deposit Protection
As of 6 April 2007, by law, all Assured Shorthold Tenancy deposits must be protected in a Government approved scheme, either the custodial scheme or insurance schemes. Managing landlords must lodge the deposit collected in a scheme within 14 days of receipt and issue the correct written notification to the tenant, or they risk heavy fines.
Deposits will be dealt with at no extra cost by Avon Lettings if Full Management has been chosen by the landlord. We can arrange deposit protection at an extra charge for landlords undertaking their own management. For more information on the custodial scheme; http://www.depositprotection.com
Is your property a HMO?
Since the introduction of the Housing Act 2004, any rented property occupied by three or more people sharing facilities such as kitchen or bathroom, living in more than one 'household' is known as a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). For the purposes of the Housing Act, any person that is not related or a co-habiting partner of another occupier forms their own household. As an example, HMO status would apply to three unrelated friends sharing a house or flat as there are effectively three households sharing facilities in one property.
There are minimum standards relating to all HMO’s, including fire and safety, amenity, and management regulations. HMO licensing schemes are also in force. Any HMO of 3 storeys or above and with 5 or more occupants requires a mandatory licence. In this case, any landlord that does not licence their property will be fined heavily.
This is a complex area and advice should be sought from the local authority concerning what changes need to be made to the property. More advice is available from Avon Lettings or your local authority housing department if required.
More information on HMO's...
Most Landlords' notices to quit are wrong
According to the Chairman of the London Association of District Judges, 7 out of 10 of all Periodic Notices served (Section 21(4)a) requiring eviction through the courts are wrong and are being thrown out of court on a technicality over dates. This can be very frustrating (and expensive) for landlords as the whole process must then be started again giving a further minimum 2 months' notice, (possibly nearer three months) so that the correct dates are served on the tenant. Avon Lettings will always serve the correct notice which includes wording to ensure this situation cannot arise.
Information for Landlords from Avon lettings
Once you have decided that you wish to let your property, we will be happy to give you a free lettings appraisal on site. This includes an inspection, lettings advice, a rental valuation and our comprehensive Landlord Pack, full of essential information about letting. This service does not require any obligation on your part. Call today for your free lettings appraisal or complete our enquiry form.