Private Tenancy & Landlord Advice
More & more people are deciding to rent because of the uncertainty about house prices and rising mortgage costs. However, many landlord & tenants do not know their legal rights.
As a private residential tenant you have rights for example, getting caught in your birthday suit as you step out of the shower isn't something that you need worry about, as landlords must give tenants 24 hours' notice if they need access to the property. Knowing your rights is half the battle and can help you avoid problems in the long run.
Or if you are a private landlord and have a letting agency looking after your property, but later find out that they aren't collecting your rent over a dispute with the tenant, what can you do?
The best way to avoid problems as a landlord and a tenant is to ensure you are aware of tenancy rights and abide by the terms of the tenancy agreement. It is important therefore to have a written copy which should clearly outline the:
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Method and date of rent payments
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Details of rent deposit scheme including how and when it should be returned
Tenancy
Top Tips on Tenancy Advice
- Read your tenancy agreement - this is the document that sets out your rights and obligations, remember this is a contract
- If a flat/house is furnished make sure you are given a detailed
inventory. It should list the condition of all the contents for
which you are responsible
- Make sure that you get a written receipt for your deposit and
details of the statutory deposit scheme where your money will be
held
- When you move in to the property take readings of gas, electric and water meters
