Lettings

If you’re a Landlord, you’re
likely familiar with the term “fair wear and tear.” However,
understanding what it actually means, as well as when it’s not applicable, can
be challenging. This week’s Friday Focus for Landlords’ delves in to this interesting topic. 

Discover The KS Property Group’s Rental Service!

Would you know if your tenant presented a subletting risk? Are you confident you’d know how to spot if subletting was taking place? With recent research by Direct Line showing 1 in 8 tenants had engaged in subletting activity – and with 22% of tenants considering or already signed up to Airbnb or similar – subletting is something to take seriously in 2023.

We’re thrilled to kick off this weekly series designed exclusively for Landlords who are passionate about enhancing their property management skills and achieving greater success. With each Friday’s edition, we’ll delve into the depths of property lettings, arming you with invaluable insights and expert tips that will empower you on your journey.

Government Proposes Delay to Increasing EPC Ratings:

The deadline to achieve EPC band C on rental properties may be pushed back to 2028, providing landlords with more time for improvements.

The investment cap is expected to increase to £10,000. A “fabric first” approach to energy efficiency prioritizes insulation before heat and electricity improvements. The consultation on these proposals closed on January 8, 2021, with plans for a second consultation in 2022.

Private rented properties are among the least energy efficient in the UK. However, the sector is making progress with a 13% increase in homes achieving EPC bands A to C since 2009. The government aims to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050.

Renters are expected to act in a ‘tenant-like manner’ and that means undertaking small maintenance jobs inside the property and outdoors too. In fact, a poll by the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) found garden maintenance was one of the top five reasons for deposit disputes.

In 2025, house builders and property developers will be banned from installing conventional gas boilers in the new properties they build. In 2035, the sale of conventional gas boilers will also be banned. 

There is a gentle murmur that rent controls could be on the cards but is it time to panic? History shows us that rent controls have rarely had the desired effect those in charge want, so despite a few rumbles in the press about a possible introduction, landlords should read with passing interest but it’s definitely not time to worry.

The number of those working for themselves broke through the 5 million barrier for the first time at the end of 2019, while the Institute for Fiscal Studies forecasts a record rise in solo self-employment in 2021. So why does this have a bearing on the lettings industry?

The admissions process for both primary and secondary places is based around a set criteria and although the distance from your home to the school gates isn’t at the top, it often counts when a school is oversubscribed. 

If you’re living in a rented property, it can be galling to think all your hard work digging, planting, pruning and perfecting has to be left behind when you move to a new property but that doesn’t have to be the case. It is possible to create a totally portable garden that can give you just as much pleasure in your next property.

Would you sign a tenancy agreement without a physical visit to the property in question? According to behaviour analysis by Twentyci – a data agency specialising in home moving activity – an increasing number of renters are agreeing to let a new home without going on a viewing.