What is an AST?

What is an AST?

An AST, or Assured Shorthold Tenancy, is the most common type of tenancy agreement between landlords and tenants in the UK. It is a legally binding contract between a landlord and a tenant that outlines the terms and conditions of renting a property.

At PTL Lettings, we believe that understanding what is an AST is crucial to protecting both renters’ and landlords’ rights and obligations, ensuring a smooth rental experience.

Whether you’re a first-time renter or an experienced tenant, navigating the details of an AST can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s why PTL Lettings is committed to breaking down the complexities of these agreements, so you can approach your tenancy with confidence.

By knowing your rights and responsibilities upfront, you can avoid common pitfalls and ensure you have a positive relationship with your landlord from the start. Let’s explore the key features of an AST and how they affect tenants.

Key Features of an AST

Fixed-Term vs. Periodic Tenancy

An AST can be set for a fixed term, typically six months or a year, or it can roll on a periodic basis (usually monthly) after the fixed term expires. During the fixed term, both the landlord and tenant are bound by the terms of the agreement. After this period, the tenancy can continue unless either party gives proper notice. At PTL Lettings, we can help you navigate these terms, whether you’re dealing with a fixed-term or periodic tenancy.

Rent and Deposit Protection

The AST agreement will specify the rent amount, when it’s due, and how it should be paid. Additionally, any deposit taken must be protected in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme, such as the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS), Deposit Protection Service (DPS), or MyDeposits. When working with PTL Lettings, we ensure that all deposits are securely protected in line with legal requirements.

Landlord’s Responsibilities

Under an AST, landlords must maintain the property in a good state of repair, ensure it meets health and safety standards, and provide necessary certificates, such as the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and Gas Safety Certificate. Our team at PTL Lettings ensures that all landlords meet these responsibilities, safeguarding your living conditions.

Tenant’s Obligations

As a tenant, you are expected to pay your rent on time, keep the property in good condition, and adhere to the terms of the agreement. This includes not causing nuisance to neighbours and seeking permission before making any alterations to the property. PTL Lettings assists tenants in understanding their obligations and ensures that communication between landlords and tenants is clear and effective.

What Happens When the Tenancy Ends?

When your AST reaches its end, there are a few possible outcomes:

Renewal of the Tenancy

If both parties are happy, the tenancy can be renewed for another fixed term, often with the same terms or with new conditions agreed upon. PTL Lettings can handle the renewal process, ensuring everything is in order for both parties.

Rolling Tenancy

If no action is taken, the tenancy automatically becomes periodic. This means that it continues on a month-to-month basis until either the tenant or landlord decides to end it. PTL Lettings provides clear guidance and support during this transition.

Ending the Tenancy

If you wish to end the tenancy, you must provide written notice to your landlord, usually one month for a periodic tenancy or as stated in the agreement for a fixed term. Similarly, landlords need to give at least two months’ notice if they want to regain possession, usually through a Section 21 notice. PTL Lettings is here to assist with the notice process, making it stress-free for both landlords and tenants.

Can the Rent be Increased During a Fixed-Term AST?

Rent increases during a fixed-term AST are usually only allowed if both parties agree or if the contract includes a rent review clause. In periodic tenancies, landlords can increase rent annually by providing the tenant with proper notice, usually one month in advance. At PTL Lettings, we ensure that any rent adjustments are fair and compliant with current regulations.

What Rights Do Tenants Have Under an AST?

Protection from Unlawful Eviction

Under an AST, tenants are protected from unlawful eviction. Landlords must follow the correct legal process, and you cannot be forced out without a court order, even after your tenancy ends. If you’re renting a property in Peterborough, PTL Lettings ensures your rights are fully respected.

Right to Peaceful Enjoyment

You have the right to live in your rental property without unwarranted interference from the landlord. While landlords can inspect the property, they must give you at least 24 hours’ notice and visit at a reasonable time, unless it’s an emergency. PTL Lettings liaises between tenants and landlords to ensure that this right is upheld.

Repairs and Maintenance

If something breaks down, such as the heating system or plumbing, it’s the landlord’s responsibility to fix it in a reasonable time. Always report any issues promptly and in writing to ensure they are addressed. We provide a reliable maintenance service for all properties to rent in Peterborough, ensuring that repairs are handled quickly and efficiently.

What Are the Consequences of Breaking an AST?

Breaching the terms of your AST, such as by failing to pay rent or damaging the property, can lead to serious consequences, including eviction. However, landlords cannot simply evict you for minor issues without following the proper legal process. If there’s a dispute, we can help resolve it through mediation or by guiding you through the legal process.

Understanding your Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement is key to a successful and stress-free renting experience. At , PTL Lettings we’re here to guide you through every aspect of your tenancy, from understanding your rights to managing communication with your landlord.

Whether you’re renting for the first time or looking to renew your tenancy, we’re committed to making the process as smooth as possible.

Please enquire here.

Looking for a property to rent in Peterborough? PTL Lettings is here to support you every step of the way.

Landlord looking for help with property management? With our expert services, you can trust us to handle everything from AST agreements to maintenance and legal compliance.

Contact us today at PTL Lettings and let us take the stress out of finding or managing a rental property in Peterborough.

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

In the meantime, we’ve answered some of your common questions about AST’s.

Frequently Asked Questions About AST’s

1. Can I leave my AST early?

Yes, but only if your landlord agrees or if there’s a break clause in your tenancy agreement. Otherwise, you may be liable for rent until the end of the agreed term. We can assist you in negotiating an early termination if necessary.

2. What should I do if my landlord isn’t protecting my deposit?

You can raise a dispute with a tenancy deposit scheme or take legal action. It’s a legal requirement for landlords to protect your deposit. PTL Lettings ensures that all deposits are correctly handled, providing peace of mind for tenants.

3. Can my landlord enter the property without permission?

No, your landlord must give you at least 24 hours’ notice and visit at a reasonable time unless it’s an emergency.

4. What happens if I can’t pay my rent?

Speak to your landlord immediately. They may offer a payment plan or some leniency. Persistent non-payment could lead to eviction, but this should be the last resort.

5. What is a Section 21 notice?

A Section 21 notice is used by landlords to regain possession of the property at the end of an AST without having to provide a reason. They must give you at least two months’ notice.

6. Can I make changes to the property?

You usually need written permission from your landlord before making any alterations, even minor ones. Check your AST for specific clauses related to changes.

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.

The Landlord’s Dictionary: Important Terms to Know

the landlords dictionary

Are you considering investing in a rental property in Peterborough? If so, understanding the various terms and jargon associated with property management is crucial for your success. From legal terms to property management lingo, our landlords dictionary is your go-to resource. It provides clear explanations that can help you feel more confident in managing your investment. In fact, having a reliable landlords dictionary at your fingertips can make all the difference when it comes to keeping things organised and manageable.

Whether you’re inheriting a family property, starting fresh with a new buy-to-let investment, or expanding your portfolio, navigating the complexities of rental agreements, tenant relations, and property maintenance can often feel overwhelming. This is exactly where our landlords dictionary proves invaluable.

Our guide will help break down the essential terms, ensuring you fully understand the jargon so you can manage your properties with ease. With the right knowledge, you’ll be better equipped to handle any situation that may arise.

At PTL Lettings, we like to make your life as a landlord as simple and stress-free as possible. With our landlords dictionary, you’ll have everything you need to stay informed and prepared.

Read our guide, keep it handy, and take the guesswork out of property management.

The Landlords Dictionary: Jargon Explained

Allowable Expenses

Allowable expenses are expenses that are “wholly and exclusively for the purposes of renting out the property.” These expenses are deducted from your rental income, therefore reducing the amount of taxable profit you’ll need to pay tax on.

Annual Percentage Yield (APY)

This term refers to the total return you expect to receive on your investment over a year, expressed as a percentage. It factors in the rent you receive and also any appreciation of the property. Additionally, understanding potential yield allows you to compare different rental properties in Peterborough and assess their profitability.

Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST)

This is the most common type of tenancy agreement in England and Wales. ASTs typically last for six or twelve months and offer flexibility for both landlords and tenants. Tenants also have the right to ‘quiet enjoyment’ of the property and must give two months’ notice before leaving the rental.

Deposit Protection Scheme (DPS)

Landlords in England, (Wales, and Scotland) are legally required to protect tenant deposits using a government-approved scheme. The purpose of this is to safeguard the tenant’s money in case of any deductions for damages beyond normal wear and tear.

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

An EPC is a document that rates the energy efficiency of a property on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). Therefore, having a good EPC rating can attract tenants who prioritise energy-saving features and can potentially help you achieve a higher rent.

Gas Safety Certificate

This is a legal requirement in England and Wales for all rented properties with gas appliances. Crucially, landlords must ensure a qualified engineer inspects the gas appliances every year and provides a valid Gas Safety Certificate.

Guarantor

A guarantor is a third party who agrees to be financially responsible for a tenant’s rent if they default on their payments. Importantly, this can be helpful for landlords who are renting to students or those with limited or poor credit history.

Holding Deposit

This is a non-refundable fee a prospective tenant pays to reserve the property while their application is being processed. Holding deposits are typically capped at one week’s rent.

Inventory Report

A detailed record of the property’s condition at the start and end of a tenancy is crucial. Inventory reports typically include photographs and descriptions of the property’s fixtures, fittings, and any existing damage. These reports are important for resolving any disputes over deductions from the tenant’s deposit.

Inventory Check-Out

This is the process of inspecting the property with the tenant at the end of the tenancy to assess any damage beyond normal wear and tear.

Landlord Insurance

This is a specialised type of insurance designed to protect landlords against financial losses associated with their rental property. Unlike standard home insurance, landlord insurance can include buildings, liability, loss of rent and legal expenses cover.

Letting Agent

Letting agents (or property management companies) manage the rental process on behalf of landlords. This can include finding tenants, conducting viewings, drawing up tenancy agreements, and handling rent collection and maintenance issues. Letting agents typically charge a fee for their services.

Letting Fee

This is the fee charged by letting agents for finding a tenant and managing the rental process.

Maintenance

Landlords are responsible for maintaining the rental property and keeping it in a good state of repair. This includes repairs to essential services like plumbing, heating, and electrical systems. Additionally, upkeep to the structure of the property itself should be taken care of. Tenants are responsible for general upkeep and reporting any issues promptly.

Mortgage Interest Relief

With a buy-to-let mortgage, landlords can claim tax relief on a portion of the mortgage interest payments. This means that, instead of being taxed on the full rental income, landlords can offset some of the interest paid on their mortgage against their rental income, reducing their overall tax bill.

Notice Period

This refers to the amount of notice a tenant or landlord must give to terminate the tenancy agreement. The standard notice period for tenants in an AST is two months, however, landlords typically require longer notice periods for repossession.

Rent Arrears

This refers to the unfortunate situation where a tenant falls behind on their rent payments. Landlords have legal options to recover unpaid rent, however it’s always best to try and communicate with the tenant first to find a solution.

Rent Guarantee Insurance

This type of insurance protects landlords against financial loss if a tenant defaults on rent payments. Costs vary between providers, therefore it’s important to get several quotes.

Rent Review

The process of renegotiating the rent amount with the tenant is typically done at the end of a fixed-term tenancy.

Right to Rent Checks

Landlords in England have a legal duty to conduct “Right to Rent” checks to ensure their tenants have the legal right to be in the UK. This typically involves verifying passports or visas.

Section 21 Notice

Section 21 notice is a legal document used by landlords in England and Wales to repossess a property at the end of a fixed-term tenancy agreement. This is provided they have complied with all their obligations under the tenancy agreement. The Labour government is seeking to scrap section 21 so it’s crucial to stay up to date with local developments on this.

Selective Licencing

In certain areas of the UK, local authorities may require landlords to obtain a selective licence to rent out a property. This is typically done in areas with high concentrations of rented properties to ensure proper management standards. Ask the team at PTL Lettings if you have a rental property in mind and we can advise you.

Tenancy Agreement

This is a legally binding contract between the landlord and tenant outlining their respective rights and responsibilities. It includes details such as the rent amount, payment schedule, deposit information, notice periods, and maintenance responsibilities.

Tenancy Deposit Scheme Dispute Service (TDS DRS)

If a dispute arises regarding deductions from a tenant’s deposit, both landlord and tenant can access a free mediation service offered by the TDS.

Unfurnished vs Furnished Tenancy

Understanding the difference between these tenancy types helps clarify what is included in the rent and the landlord’s responsibilities regarding furniture and appliances.

Wear and Tear

Normal wear and tear refers to the deterioration of a property that occurs through everyday use. Examples might include faded paintwork, worn carpets, and minor scratches on floors. Landlords cannot deduct from a tenant’s deposit for normal wear and tear.

What Next?

We hope our landlords dictionary is helpful! Understanding these key terms will empower you to make informed decisions as a landlord. Remember, there’s always more to learn, and the team at PTL Lettings is here to help!

With knowledge and preparation, you can navigate the world of property lettings in Peterborough with confidence and success.

Rental Property Management in Peterborough

At PTL Lettings we are your local property management experts in Peterborough. If you need expert letting or property management services to help market and manage your property, our experienced team can help.

Contact us today on 01733 555183, book a valuation or browse our letting and property management services .

Becoming A Landlord In Peterborough: 7 Steps

7 Steps To Becoming A Residential Landlord

There are a number of reasons people consider becoming a residential landlord.

Often, it’s because someone wants to do more with their savings and sees property as a sound investment with a regular income. Or a person becomes an accidental landlord after inheriting a property or moving into a house with a partner.

However, while the allure of consistent rental income is certainly appealing, there are several things you need to consider before you begin your property portfolio.

Here are seven things to think about when becoming a landlord in Peterborough.

How to Become a Landlord of a Rental Property in Peterborough

Set-up costs

Finances matter, the numbers have to stack up. If you’re going to obtain a buy-to-let mortgage, the mortgage lender needs to know about your income and what rent you hope to achieve.

They have to ensure that you can cover the costs. You’ll probably have to pay for surveys, too, so they can be sure the house is worth what you think it is.

Then there are the legal fees and the search costs. Many law firms who specialise in conveyancing will be able to give you an early indication of what your final bill will be.

DIY or use a letting agent

You could manage the property yourself – and many landlords consider this as it can help reduce costs. However, you must make sure you have the time to dedicate to the management of the property.

Do you want to use a letting agency to find you a tenant and arrange the initial agreements? You can then keep on top of things for yourself. Or would you rather hand over all the management to the agency? Reducing the pressure on you is great, but there are costs involved with letting agent fees.

Landlord insurance

When you are renting out a property in Peterborough, you must obtain landlord insurance. This is because a home insurance policy will not cover you for what you need, and also because the right insurance will protect you, your property and your tenant.

If you’re taking out a mortgage to buy the property, your lender will insist that you have insurance. The costs of insurance will vary depending on the level of cover, such as personal liability, contents cover and buildings cover, and loss of rent cover, in the unfortunate event of unpaid rent. Speak with an insurer or a broker and be absolutely clear about what you need.

Furnished or unfurnished

Whether you rent out a fully furnished property or one that is unfurnished it is a decision you need to make early on.

If you’ve inherited a furnished property, then it might well be an easy decision. If this is the case, you might find this suits a potential tenant, and you will be able to get a better monthly rent.

Obviously, if you rent out an unfurnished property, it means you don’t need to buy things for it. Many potential tenants prefer this as they can put their own furniture in and make it their home. Don’t forget; it’s best practice to get an inventory carried out as this will affect your insurance policy and could minimise disputes at the end of an agreement with prospective tenants.

Paperwork

One of the top tips for being a landlord is to be well organised and up to date with paperwork from the start. It may seem daunting having a lot of documents, but organisation is key.

Not only will this ensure you don’t fall foul of any legal responsibilities, but it should also mean that if any disputes arise, you know straight away where things are. (It’s also particularly useful when you’re doing your accounts or checking information).

Plus, there won’t be any nasty surprises when you suddenly realise you need to pay income tax!

Legals & responsibility

There are certain legal obligations and responsibilities that need to be understood. These are in addition to the tenancy agreement that you and your tenant should be signing. For example, before a property is let, you’ll need an up-to-date Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for it.

A gas safety certificate is required for each gas appliance in the property. Each home must have smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide detector. Plus, any appliances or furniture must meet the required safety standards. There are also rules about a tenant’s deposit and how it is kept in a Government-approved scheme. If you need help with any of these, we can advise you. Simply call us on 01733 555183.

Right to rent checks

A relatively new aspect of renting out a property in Peterborough is the need to carry out a Right to Rent check. A landlord must, by law, check whether a potential tenant has the legal right to rent a property in the UK.

Failure to carry out the required checks could result in hefty fines so if you do need advice, then contact us and we will be delighted to help.

What Next? Need expert advice?

Searching for advice on renting out your property? Contact our team on 01733 555183. Alternatively, email us at 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.

In the meantime, here are the answers to the most frequently asked questions about becoming a landlord:

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Landlord and Setting Up Rental Properties

You may be interested to read 8 Things UK Landlords Need To Know

Do I need a license to become a landlord in the UK?

In England, landlords may need to obtain a license for certain types of properties, such as houses in multiple occupations (HMOs).

What responsibilities do landlords have regarding tenant safety?

Landlords are legally obligated to ensure the safety of their tenants by conducting regular gas safety checks. They must also provide smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and adhere to electrical safety standards.

How can I set a fair rental price for my property?

Research the local rental market, consider property features and amenities and evaluate comparable rentals to determine a competitive and fair rental price for your specific location and property type.

What steps should I take if my tenant fails to pay rent?

Follow the legal eviction process outlined in the relevant UK legislation. This typically involves issuing a notice to the tenant and seeking possession through the court if rent arrears persist.

Should I Let Tenants Keep A Pet?

Should I let tenants keep a pet?

Data circulating the property industry provides a clear message – landlords don’t like tenants keeping a pet!

Data from gov.uk states that only 7% of UK rentals advertise themselves as pet-friendly. Potentially, there are a lot of missed opportunities from landlords sticking with the ‘no pets allowed’ policy.

In this article, we’ll explore what the UK law is on tenants keeping a pet. We will also look at the benefits of being pet-friendly for landlords and share our advice on how to safely allow your tenants to keep a pet.

Things to Consider About Letting Prospective Tenants With Pets Into Your Rental Property in Peterborough

What is the Law on Letting With Pets?

Ultimately, it’s the landlord’s decision as to whether a tenant can keep a pet in their property.

However, the UK government encourages more landlords to allow pet-friendly renting through the Model Tenancy Agreement. This is the government’s recommendation for what a good shorthold tenancy agreement should look like.

This contains two crucial elements about pets in rentals, including:

  • Landlords shouldn’t have a blanket ‘no pets allowed’ policy and;

  • Landlords should consider any request from a tenant to keep a pet seriously and only decline for good reason

Should I Let Tenants Keep a Pet?

While there are risks associated with a tenant having domestic pets (like damage to the property or causing a nuisance to neighbours), there are benefits, too.

Private landlords that accept pets and advertise their property as pet-friendly can:

  • Attract better tenants in the future
  • Sign longer leases (which can mean less chance of voids)
  • Stand out from the crowd
  • Keep existing tenants happy

How to Safely Let Your Property as Pet-Friendly

If you have decided that allowing pets is the right way to go, it’s time to lay down some ground rules and establish whether potential tenants are responsible pet owners or not.

Ask for Records

Depending on the animal, you may want to check that it’s up to date with its vaccinations. A pet owner who stays on top of vaccinations is a good sign that they are a responsible owner. Plus, it can reassure you that the animal is healthy and protected from diseases.

Check training and behaviour

If your tenant is requesting to keep a hamster, cat or reptile, checking training records isn’t important. But if your tenant wants to keep a dog on your property, make sure you ask about its training to see if they maintain responsible pet ownership.

Ask questions like:

  • Is the dog house-trained?
  • How much training have they had?
  • Will the dog be left alone for long periods?

Arrange a meet and greet

If you’re concerned about how well-behaved your tenants’ pet is, arrange a meet and greet to see what the pet is like in person. Alternatively, ask for a video call with the pet!

There are plenty of lovely spots in Peterborough that are dog friendly and would help you see if they are a responsible pet owner.

This is a great opportunity to see just how well-trained the animal is, and assess how comfortable you are letting the animal stay in your property.

Set boundaries

Before agreeing, consider setting boundaries around the tenant keeping a pet. For example, confirm if you are allowing pet owners to have one pet only, and that any new pets require prior approval.

Agree on terms

Whatever you decide when it comes to agreeing to let your tenants keep a pet in your Peterborough rental property, make sure it’s documented in the terms of your lease.

Include information about any boundaries you set, what responsibilities the tenant has when it comes to cleaning up after the pet in your rental property, and any tenant fees may occur if those standards are not upheld or there is pet damage.

In Summary

Allowing your tenants to keep a pet is ultimately your decision as a landlord. Numerous benefits are available to landlords if they allow pets, but you still need to ensure you’re always protecting yourself and your property.

For more advice on property management or letting your property, our friendly team at PTL Lettings are happy to help. Get in touch today on 01733 555183, or email us at info@ptl-lettings.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Pet-Friendly Landlord

Can I charge additional rent or fees for tenants with pets?

Landlords are not allowed to charge a ‘fee’ to a tenant who wishes to keep pets or other animals in a rental property. Deposits are capped in England since the introduction of the Tenant Fees Act in 2019. However, permission may be given for pets on the condition that the tenant pays an additional reasonable amount in rent.

Can I charge for professional cleaning at the end of a tenancy with a pet?

Landlords cannot insist on a professional cleaning service at the end of a tenancy as this is a prohibited payment under the Tenant Fees Act legislation, however tenants must return the property in its original condition.

Can I discriminate against certain types or breeds of pets?

It’s advisable to focus on the behaviour and history of individual pets rather than discriminating based on breeds, as breed-specific policies may be subject to legal scrutiny and can be seen as discriminatory.

What steps can I take to protect my property from potential pet-related damage?

Implementing a clear and detailed pet policy, conducting thorough tenant screening, and including specific clauses in the lease regarding pet responsibilities and potential consequences for damage can help protect your property while allowing for responsible pet ownership.

Is Mould In Rented Property A Landlord’s Responsibility?

mould in rented property

Over the past couple of decades, rental accommodation in Peterborough has greatly improved, however mould in rented property is still an issue plaguing landlords and tenants alike. One of the biggest problems is that responsibility for preventing mould in the first place lies with both the landlord and the tenant, and that means that the parties blaming each other can end up taking priority over resolving the problem at its cause.

So, if you’re based in Peterborough, are landlords responsible for dealing with mould in rented property? Find out here, as the expert team at PTL lettings have put this helpful guide together for you.

You may also be interested in 8 Things UK Landlords Need To Know

What Causes Mould?

Mould in rented property can have several different causes including penetrating damp, rising damp, and condensation. The most frequently seen reason for mould developing in properties is, undoubtedly, condensation, but luckily, it’s also the easiest cause to address.

It’s trickier to resolve a rising damp problem, but fortunately, it is encountered far more rarely. Usually, this issue is found in older properties, however, new homes may also be affected, especially if they’ve recently had repair works carried out that could have caused damage to the damp proof course.

If your property suffers from rising damp, it’s likely to be your responsibility as the landlord to resolve it, although if the tenants have interfered somehow with the damp proof course, it could be their responsibility to deal with.

If your property suffers from penetrating damp, its source must be found so the issue can be solved. Usually, it will be down to missing roof slates or leaking pipework – issues that are the landlord’s responsibility to rectify.

What Are The Tenant’s Responsibilities With Regard To Mould?

Tenants will usually need to keep any condensation inside the property to a minimum. If a faulty heating system or inadequate insulation is the cause of condensation, the landlord must take responsibility. Otherwise, condensation is something the tenants need to control by ensuring proper ventilation and temperature levels. They should follow these tips to reduce condensation and mould in rented property:

  • Close the door of the bathroom when bathing or showering and open the window or use the extractor fan afterwards.
  • Dry laundry outdoors whenever possible or utilise a dehumidifier.
  • When cooking, cover pans with lids to prevent steam from escaping.
  • Wipe wet windows down and keep them open for ten minutes each morning.
  • Make sure furniture is 10cm-15cm away from the external walls to prevent the evolution of a microclimate.

What Are My Responsibilities As A Landlord With Regard To Mould In Rented Property?

If mould is affecting your tenant’s safety or health, or if it has occurred due to a property issue that can be repaired, it’s your responsibility as the landlord to rectify it. Landlords must ensure their property is fit for living in under the terms of the 2018 Homes (Fitness For Human Inhabitation) Act.

Some repairs you may need to carry out to resolve mould issues include:

  • Repairing broken bathroom or kitchen extractor fans
  • Fixing a faulty heating system
  • Resolving guttering issues
  • Repairing window frames that have rotted
  • Fixing plumbing leaks
  • Repairing roof problems
  • Fixing large cracks in the external walls

This is where the services of a letting agent in Peterborough can help you stay on top of maintenance!

What Next?

If you’re a landlord in Peterborough and you need advice, or a valuation, get in touch with the PTL Lettings team today on 01733 555183 or at info@ptl-lettings.co.uk. We’re looking forward to working with you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mould In Rented Property

Is mould a landlord’s responsibility?

It is the landlord’s responsibility to fix mould issues caused by structural faults or disrepair. Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 confirms this.

Can I withhold rent for mould?

No! Tenants cannot withhold rent because a landlord has not made necessary repairs.

How to Clean Mould on Walls

Protect your hands with rubber gloves.
Mix one part bleach to four parts water.
Gently scrub the mould.
Wipe away the bleach mixture.
Dry the area well with a soft cloth.