Posted on

Maintenance Tips for Landlords: Don’t Neglect Property Repairs

Maintenance Tips for Landlords

Owning a rental property in Peterborough comes with its own set of responsibilities, and one of the most critical is ensuring regular maintenance. That’s why we find that maintenance tips for landlords are always welcomed!

Unfortunately, many Peterborough landlords neglect this crucial aspect of property management, which can lead to issues affecting both landlords and tenants.

In this article from the team at PTL Lettings, we’ll explore the common mistakes landlords make by failing to maintain their rental properties.

We’ll also look at why prioritising property maintenance is essential for a successful rental experience.

The Consequences of Neglected Property Maintenance

Neglecting property maintenance can have far-reaching consequences that affect landlords and tenants. These are some common issues, along with our maintenance tips for landlords:

Deteriorating Property Value Due to Neglected Repairs

When landlords fail to invest in regular maintenance, the property’s condition naturally deteriorates over time.

This decline can lead to a significant reduction in the property’s overall value. A poorly maintained rental property becomes less appealing to prospective tenants and can also result in lower rental income when compared to well-maintained properties in the same area.

Additionally, the resale value of the property may decrease, making it difficult to realise a profit if you decide to sell.

Tenant Dissatisfaction Due to Neglected Property

Tenant satisfaction plays a pivotal role in the success of your rental property business. A neglected property can lead to tenant dissatisfaction, and unhappy tenants are more likely to terminate their agreement early or report maintenance issues, creating additional stress and expenses for landlords.

Unresolved maintenance problems can also lead to legal disputes and potential fines if the property violates government regulations.

Increased Maintenance and Repair Costs Over Time

One of the most significant mistakes landlords make is postponing necessary repairs and maintenance tasks. When minor issues are ignored, they escalate into more extensive and costly problems. For example, a small leak can lead to water damage, mould growth, and structural issues if left unresolved. Regular inspections and timely repairs prevent costly scenarios, ultimately saving landlords time and money.

The Importance of Regular Property Maintenance

Now we’ve discussed the consequences of neglecting rental property maintenance, let’s delve into why regular maintenance is crucial for landlords:

Longer Tenant Retention

Happy tenants are more likely to stay long-term, reducing void periods and turnover costs for landlords. Regular maintenance ensures that the property remains in good condition but also creates positive tenant-landlord relationships.

When tenants see that their landlord is proactive in addressing maintenance concerns promptly, they are more likely to renew their tenancy agreement.

Legal Compliance Met

Landlords with rental properties in Peterborough are legally obligated to provide safe and habitable living conditions for their tenants. Neglecting property maintenance can result in legal repercussions, including fines and penalties. To stay compliant with local housing regulations, it is essential to conduct regular inspections, address maintenance issues promptly, and keep thorough records of maintenance activities.

Enhanced Property Value

Maintaining a rental property’s condition and appearance attracts quality tenants and enhances its market value. Well-maintained properties are more appealing to prospective renters and potential buyers.

By consistently investing in property maintenance, landlords can secure higher rental income and achieve better resale value when the time comes to sell the property.

Tips for Effective Property Maintenance

To avoid the common mistakes associated with neglecting property maintenance, here are some tips for landlords in Peterborough:

Create a Maintenance Schedule

Establish a regular maintenance schedule that includes routine inspections and preventive maintenance tasks.

This schedule should cover essential areas such as plumbing, electrical systems, roofing, and heating systems. Regularly inspect appliances and address any issues promptly.

Prioritise Tenant Communication

Encourage open communication with your tenants regarding maintenance concerns. Provide tenants with clear instructions on how to report issues and respond to their requests efficiently.

Make sure tenants are aware of their responsibilities in maintaining the property, such as reporting minor problems and promptly addressing any damages they may cause.

Budget for Maintenance Expenses

Set aside a portion of your rental income for maintenance expenses. Having a dedicated budget for maintenance ensures you can cover the costs of repairs and improvements without dipping into your personal finances.

Remember that proactive maintenance is an investment that will save you money in the long run.

Property Maintenance is a Responsibility Landlords Must Embrace

Regular property maintenance is not just a choice. It’s a responsibility that Peterborough landlords must embrace.

Neglecting rental property maintenance can lead to financial losses, legal issues, and tenant dissatisfaction.

If you’re a landlord who would like more information on how to enhance your rental property value, attract and retain quality tenants, and maintain legal compliance, our team at PTL Lettings would love to hear from you.

PTL Lettings can help you with property management in Peterborough.

Call us on 01733 555183 or email info@ptl-lettings.co.uk to find out how we can help you.

Property to let? For a free valuation click here

In the meantime, we’ve answered some of your common questions about property maintenance for landlords.

Frequently Asked Questions About Preventative Maintenance Tips for Landlords

What are essential property maintenance tips for landlords to prevent costly repairs?

Essential property maintenance tips include creating a maintenance schedule covering plumbing, electrical, roofing, and heating systems, promptly addressing tenant-reported issues, and budgeting for maintenance expenses to avoid dipping into personal finances.

How can landlords ensure a well-maintained property to attract quality tenants?

Landlords can maintain a well-kept property by conducting regular inspections, addressing minor maintenance issues promptly, and hiring professional contractors for specialised tasks, enhancing its appeal to prospective renters and buyers.

Why is it important for landlords to develop mutually beneficial relationships with tenants through property maintenance?

By prioritising tenant communication and promptly addressing maintenance concerns, landlords can foster positive tenant-landlord relationships, leading to longer tenant retention and reduced turnover costs, benefiting both parties.

What are the responsibilities of landlords regarding property maintenance in the UK?

Landlords in the UK are responsible for ensuring the property meets safety and habitability standards, conducting regular property inspections, and promptly addressing maintenance issues to comply with local housing regulations and provide a comfortable living environment for tenants.

Posted on

A Guide To Landlord Allowable Expenses: Maximizing Returns

Attachment Details A-Guide-to-Allowable-Expenses-for-Landlords

As a landlord in Peterborough, navigating the world of taxes can be a daunting task. However, understanding and utilizing allowable expenses can significantly reduce your tax bill while ensuring you’re paying a fair share. In this guide, we’ll walk you through what allowable expenses are, what you can claim, and how they impact your tax bill.

What Are Allowable Expenses?

Allowable expenses, as defined by the gov.uk website, are expenses that are “wholly and exclusively for the purposes of renting out the property.” But did you know that these expenses can be deducted from your rental income, reducing the amount of taxable profit you’ll need to pay tax on?

What Can You Claim For?

As a landlord of a rental property in Peterborough, there are a range of expenses you can claim, including:

General Maintenance and Repairs: This includes expenses for upkeep and repairs to the property, excluding improvements.

Utilities and Council Tax: Expenses such as water rates, council tax, gas, electricity, ground rents, and service charges can be claimed.

Insurance: Landlords’ policies for buildings, contents, and public liability costs are allowable expenses.

Professional Fees: Fees for services such as property management, rent collection, marketing, accountants, surveyors, and solicitors can be claimed.

Advertising and Subscriptions: Costs related to advertising for new tenants and subscriptions to landlord associations are allowable.

Travel Expenses: Costs for traveling between rental properties in Peterborough can be claimed, including petrol and vehicle running costs.

How Do Allowable Expenses Affect Your Tax Bill?

Most landlords file their tax returns under the ‘cash basis,’ which means only income received, and expenses paid during the tax year are included. However, keeping accurate records of all income and expenses is essential for claiming allowable expenses effectively. Additionally, utilising the services of an experienced letting agent can streamline this process, ensuring accurate record-keeping.

What Can’t You Claim?

Certain expenses are not considered allowable, including personal expenses, private phone calls unrelated to the rental business, and clothing bought for business purposes. Additionally, total mortgage payments cannot be claimed as allowable expenses.

Landlords’ Wear and Tear Allowance

‘Replacement of domestic items relief,’ allows landlords to claim expenses for replacing domestic items. However, it’s important to note that initial purchases, such as furnishing a property from scratch, are not eligible for tax relief.

Key Allowable Expenses to Remember

Whether you’re a novice investor or an experienced landlord in Peterborough, certain expenses can make a significant difference to your tax return. Don’t overlook expenses such as travel costs between properties, advertising expenses, and legal and accountancy fees related to buy-to-let investments.

Understanding allowable expenses is crucial for maximizing returns as a landlord. By leveraging these deductions effectively, you can reduce your tax liability while ensuring compliance with tax regulations.

However, tax rules can be complex! It’s advisable to consult with a professional tax advisor to explore your individual circumstances thoroughly.

Remember, proper record-keeping and documentation are key to successfully claiming allowable expenses and optimizing your tax position as a landlord.

PTL Lettings can help you with property management in Peterborough.

Call us on 01733 555183 or email info@ptl-lettings.co.uk to find out how we can help you maximize returns on your rental property.

Property to let? For a free valuation click here

*This is not tax advice and tax rules can be complex. We recommend that you speak with a professional tax advisor about your individual circumstances.

Posted on

4 Things To Know About Landlord Insurance

4 Things To Know About Landlord Insurance

Are you thinking about investing in landlord insurance? Unsure about things you should know about landlord insurance? While it may not be a legal requirement, you’re leaving yourself open to a huge amount of risk without it.

Here are the most important things you should know about landlord insurance, including what it is and what type of insurance you should get.

What Is Landlord Insurance?

Landlord insurance provides you with protection against the risks associated with renting to tenants.

Usually, landlord insurance includes protection against things like damages to the building or contents.

But there are other optional policies you can take out, like cover for boiler breakages or missed rent payments.

What Type of Landlord Insurance Should You Get?

There are many different types of landlord insurance available. Each one will cover you for different circumstances. The main types of cover available include:

  • Building – Covers the repair of structural damage, plus fixtures and fittings, in the event of a fire, storm, flood or other accident.

  • Contents – Covers damage or theft of furnishings, including things like curtains, carpets, and white goods. This doesn’t include items the tenant owns, as they should have their own tenant’s insurance.

  • Liability – Covers the costs if you or your tenant is injured on your property.

  • Rent guarantee – Recovers any missed rent payments by the tenant and any legal fees should you take a tenant to court.

  • Home emergency – Protects in the event of an emergency, like a boiler, plumbing, security, or pest issue.

  • Key care – Covers the cost of providing new locks or keys to tenants.

If you’re not sure which type of cover you need, speak to PTL Lettings and we’ll be happy to advise you, or check with your lender.

Click to Read 8 Things Every Landlord Should Know

4 Things To Know About Landlord Insurance

1. It’s Different To Home Insurance

Landlord insurance is very different to regular home insurance. If you have home insurance for a property, but you’re renting the space to a tenant, your policy will automatically be void. If you’re not living in the property, basic home insurance won’t provide you with the cover you need as a landlord.

2. Some Lenders Mandate It

It’s not a legal requirement to have landlord insurance. But most mortgage lenders will make it mandatory before entering into an agreement with you. If you don’t comply, you could be breaking the terms of your mortgage.

3. It’s Tax-Deductible

Just like most landlord expenses, you can usually claim back on the costs of your landlord insurance. Make sure you keep records of payment and notify your accountant (if you have one) about the costs.

4. Bulk Discounts Apply

If you rent more than one property, you could get a discount on your landlord insurance. Many providers will offer you a discount if you choose to arrange your insurance for all buildings on a bulk policy.

Click here to read 7 Steps to Becoming a Landlord in Peterborough

Rent With Confidence

At PTL Lettings, we can help you rent with the confidence and security you need. Find out why landlords choose us here!

For more advice on landlord insurance and property management services in Peterborough, get in touch with us today on 01733 555183 or email info@ptl-lettings.co.uk.

In the meantime, we’ve answered some of your common questions about landlord insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Landlord Insurance

Do I need landlord insurance if I have home insurance?

Standard home insurance doesn’t cover rental properties. You need a specific landlord insurance policy to protect your investment.

What does landlord insurance cover?

Landlord insurance typically covers building damage, loss of rent, public liability, and legal expenses. Some policies also include optional cover for contents, boiler breakdowns, and key replacement.

How much does landlord insurance cost?

The cost of landlord insurance depends on various factors, including the property’s value, location, number of tenants, and the level of cover you choose. It’s essential to compare quotes from different insurers to find the best deal.

Is landlord insurance a legal requirement?

While not legally required, most mortgage lenders will insist on landlord insurance before approving a mortgage for a rental property. It’s strongly recommended to protect your investment.

Rental Property Management in Peterborough For landlords

At PTL Lettings we are your local experts for property management in Peterborough. If you need expert letting agent or property management services or advice, our experienced team can help. Contact us today on 01733 555183 or email info@ptl-lettings.co.uk.

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on Instagram

Connect with us on X

Posted on

How to Handle a Nuisance Tenant

How to deal with a nuisance tenant

Whether it’s noise complaints from the neighbours or something more serious like always paying rent late, a nuisance tenant is, well, a nuisance!

Despite this, there are some things you can do to effectively handle a nuisance tenant that can prevent a small issue from turning into something much bigger.

Here are six handy tips on how to handle a nuisance tenant in your Peterborough rental property.

6 Steps to Handling Nuisance Tenants

1. Stay Calm

It’s easy to get emotional in bad situations – especially if you have to regularly deal with a nuisance tenant. But, as a landlord, it’s your job to stay calm and level-headed.

If you act as the voice of reason, you’re more likely to get a better response from your tenant than if you’re overwhelmed with emotion.

2. Manage Behaviour

Be rational and objective, and try to get through to your tenant if you can. Try to manage their behaviour by explaining that whatever the issue, it isn’t acceptable and why.

Make sure you explain to your nuisance tenant what is appropriate instead. Have patience and regularly remind the tenant of the lease that they agreed to.

In a tactful way, make it clear to the tenant that you take breaches seriously.

3. Keep Records

The best way to protect yourself when you have a nuisance tenant is to keep records of everything.

Make a note of things like complaints from neighbours and when rent payments were made. It’ll make things much easier if the tenant tries to dispute anything.

Plus, the records you keep could come in handy if the problem progresses.

4. Build a Relationship

The importance of having a good relationship with your tenants cannot be overstated. Whatever the circumstances, try to maintain a good relationship with your tenant.

If you manage to win them over, they will be more likely to comply with your requests.

5. Hire a Letting Agent or Property Management Company

If you’re at your wit’s end dealing with a nuisance tenant, consider hiring a letting agent or property management company like PTL Lettings to take over the management process.

It may not stop the tenant from being a nuisance. But professionals like us have the skills and tact to build a strong relationship and keep an eye on the situation.

Plus, we can handle tenant enquiries for you, which can be a huge relief if you get too emotional when speaking with your tenant.

6. Take Action

Dealing with a nuisance tenant requires patience and persistence. Have a candid conversation with the tenant about the problems and potential consequences. Sometimes, tenants are unaware of the impact of their behaviour and a straightforward talk can resolve the issue. If this approach doesn’t work, consider mediation. Many local councils and tenant associations offer mediation services that can help resolve disputes without formal action.

If all else fails you may need to consider a formal eviction notice. To do this, strict procedures must be followed and it is important landlords stay within the law.

Need Help With the Noisy Tenants in Your Rental Property?

If you need support managing the relationship with your tenants, PTL Lettings are here to help. We provide letting agent services and property management in Peterborough that can make your life as a landlord easier and less stressful.

Call today on 01733 555183 or email us at info@ptl-lettings.co.uk to learn more about our landlord support services or to request a valuation.

You may also be interested to read 8 Things Every landlord Should Know

Frequently Asked Questions About Nuisance Tenants

My tenants are constantly having loud parties with excessive noise complaints from neighbours. What can I do as a landlord?

If the noise isn’t addressed after calmly explaining the issue and reminding them of the tenancy agreement, keep records of complaints and consider involving a property management company to mediate the situation. As a last resort, eviction may be necessary.

I’m a new landlord and worried about anti-social behaviour from tenants. How can I avoid nuisance tenants in the future?

Conduct thorough reference checks and ensure the tenancy agreement clearly outlines acceptable behaviour. Property management companies can help screen tenants and handle communication.

Is a landlord responsible for dealing with a nuisance tenant, or can I hire help?

While you can manage the situation yourself, property management companies offer expertise in communication, mediation, and enforcing the tenancy agreement. They can also handle tenant enquiries, reducing your stress.

What are my options if I need to evict tenants for breaching the tenancy agreement due to anti-social behaviour?

If all else fails, you can follow the legal eviction process. Consulting with a property management company or solicitor can ensure you follow the correct procedures as a landlord.

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on Instagram

Connect with us on X

Posted on

A Guide to Purchasing a Buy-To-Let Property in Peterborough

A Guide to Purchasing a Buy-To-Let Property in Peterborough

If you’re considering Becoming A Landlord In Peterborough, there are many elements to consider and understand before you purchase a property. The process of buying a buy-to-let property differs from buying a residential property that you will live in yourself, so it’s good to know exactly what to expect.

Of course, it’s a long-term investment that shouldn’t be made in haste, so if you’re reading this, you are probably looking for the right kind of information.

Our team at PTL Lettings are experts in buy-to-let advice, so here is our straightforward guide to purchasing a buy-to-let property in Peterborough.

What is Buy-to-Let?

First things first, the basics. Buy-to-let is a property specifically purchased with the intention to rent it out to tenants. It’s an investment property that can generate a monthly income. As long as the rent being charged is higher than the monthly buy-to-let mortgage payments that is!

A buy-to-let mortgage is different to a residential mortgage, and if you can’t afford to simply buy the property outright, you will need to apply for one.

When applying for a standard mortgage, your income is taken into consideration, whereas with a buy-to-let loan, the lender considers the potential rental income as your primary income source, and considers your personal income as secondary. The interest rates tend to be lower, but they have larger upfront fees, so keep that in mind.

Moreover, deposits on buy-to-let mortgages are also typically larger than the deposit needed for a standard mortgage, so expect to put down at least 25%.

What kind of buy-to-let property should you buy?

The right property is important and can include factors such as the location in proximity to amenities and transport, as well as the neighbourhood and the demand in the area.

Much like when you’re searching for your own place to live, you should ensure you do adequate research into the area you want your buy-to-let property to be located in.

Consider what kind of tenant you want to target and include that in your research. If you’re trying to rent to families, your best bet is to find a property in the suburbs close to good schools.

If you want to rent to students, a property near a university and with cheap restaurants and nightlife is key. Keep in mind, the type of tenants you have renting from you can affect your mortgage, as many lenders have restrictions on student rentals, for example.

Do you need buy-to-let insurance?

The short answer is yes; you should have buy-to-let insurance (also known as landlord insurance). It gives you coverage for the building and the contents inside and any landlord liabilities.

Building insurance is often required by your mortgage lender in order to secure a loan. This will compensate you if your property is destroyed or damaged. The insurance will cover the repairs or rebuilding costs so you don’t have to pay huge expenses out of your own pocket.

Contents insurance will cover any furniture inside the property. It’s a smart idea to get contents insurance even if your buy-to-let property is unfurnished. You can choose what level of cover you require, and it can protect any curtains, carpets, and other furnishings that remain at your property between tenants.

If you choose to rent your property unfurnished or furnished, your tenants will be responsible for their own contents insurance. They will also be responsible for personal belongings when they move in.

Landlord liability is mostly your choice. However, if you’re renting to students, for example, there may be a minimum level required. This covers you for any injuries or deaths of any tenants or visitors in your property.

Do you need to use a letting agent?

This answer is dependent on the budget you’re working with, how much time you have, and the level of involvement you wish to have with your buy-to-let property.

If you want to take a hands-off approach, it is a good idea to enlist the help of a professional, experienced lettings agency for your property management in Peterborough.  

Choosing a letting agent like us means we will help you carry out credit checks on your potential tenants, help you come up with a letting contract, chase late rental payments for you, help with any maintenance on site that needs to be done, and assist with mandatory safety and efficiency checks for gas and energy.

The fees to work with a letting agent typically include paying an ongoing fee to manage the property which varies. It’s always best to speak with your chosen letting agent to get a complete idea of costs.

Generally, utilising the services of a letting agent can take a big burden off your shoulders if you are a budding landlord!

At PTL lettings we offer services that are right for your individual needs. We deal with every landlord independently and our highly trained staff will help you with any concerns you may have.

What Next? Want to Learn More About Buy-to-Let Property?

For professional advice on purchasing a buy-to-let property in Peterborough, contact our expert team at PTL Lettings on 01733 555183. Alternatively, email info@ptl-lettings.co.uk, or book a valuation and we will be delighted to help. We deal with every landlord independently to meet their needs.

You may also be interested to read 8 Things Every Landlord Should Know

In the meantime, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about purchasing a Buy-To-Let property:

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying a Buy-to-Let Property

How much tax will I pay on my buy-to-let income?

You’ll pay income tax on rental profits (rental income minus expenses). Mortgage interest tax relief helps offset some of this cost.

What about capital gains tax when I sell my buy-to-let property?

Yes, you’ll likely pay capital gains tax on the profit you make when you sell your buy-to-let property. There’s an annual tax-free allowance to consider.

Is a buy-to-let property a good investment?

Rental yield (your annual rental income as a percentage of the property value) is a key consideration. It should cover your buy-to-let mortgage interest and other expenses.

Do I need to pay stamp duty on a buy-to-let property?

Yes, stamp duty rates for buy-to-let properties are typically higher than residential purchases as it’s not your main home. Talk to a financial advisor about the specific costs involved.

Follow us on Facebook

Follow us on Instagram

Connect with us on X