Landlords continued

Legislation for Landlords

Government legislation relating to buy-to-let and landlords is constantly changing, often making it difficult to keep up-to-date on all the latest developments.

This page offers the latest information and hopefully will answer any questions you have.

Deposit Protection Service (DPS)
From 6th April 2007, all deposits (for rent up to £25,000 per annum) taken by landlords and agents for assured shorthold tenancies (AST) in England and Wales have had to be protected by an authorised tenancy deposit scheme.

To avoid disputes going to court, each scheme is supported by an alternative dispute resolution (ADR) service, whose aim is to make disputes over the repayment of the deposit faster and cheaper to resolve.

HMOs (Homes with multiple occupancy)
On 6th April 2006 mandatory HMO licensing came into force across England. Landlords whose property is classed as an HMO should find out how this affects them and their tenants.

This website also explains what an HMO is and whether you need a licence:
www.communities.gov.uk

Energy Performance Certificates
All landlords across the UK are now required to provide an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to any prospective buyer or tenant of a property when it is either sold or rented out.

The certificate, which will be valid for 10 years, rates the energy efficiency of a property on a scale of A-G, and makes recommendations for improvement. Failure to comply with regulations could result in a £200 fine and prevent you from marketing your property.

We have teamed up with one of our recommended suppliers - Energy Performance - to offer our clients EPC's at the discounted price of £60.00 plus VAT. To obtain your EPC either email enquiries@seekers-ashford.com or call 01233 660532.