Lettings Brochure

7. How does the EPC rating affect the property being
rented?
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is required by law to provide
an energy rating for any property to be let. The accompanying report
will include a recommendation listing any potential improvement
which could be carried out to increase the rating. A rating of E or
above is required for property to be let, unless the property appears
on the exemption register, and our agents will explain further should
this situation arise. We do find that tenants look for a good rating to
ensure low heating bills.
8. What is the difference between damp and
condensation?
Unless there is a structural defect (such as leaking pipes, water ingress
or rising damp), the majority of damp issues reported by tenants are
caused by condensation. Condensation occurs mainly during cold
weather where a property is not ventilated or heated sufficiently. The
mould grows on walls and furniture and does not leave a ‘tidemark’
and is easily removed by a fungicidal wash. It can be easily managed
by heating the property a little more, keep windows ajar and do not
dry your clothes inside.
9. What is classed as an emergency repair?
A burst pipe, serious electrical fault, gas leak or no form of heating in
mid-winter with sub-zero temperatures. As part of our management
service, we would provide in-going tenants with a list of preferred
contractors in the event of an emergency occurring out of office hours.
10. How will the recent Tenant Fee Ban Legislation affect
me as a landlord?
Main points to know:
References: As a crucial part of choosing the right tenant, we carry
out extensive background checks on all our tenants. Prior to 1st June
2019 we were able to charge a reference fee to the tenant, this is
now passed on to the landlord. Landlords need to recoup the costs
elsewhere, invariably through charging higher rents.
Deposits: Security deposits are now capped at five week’s rent and
holding deposits at one week’s rent.
Third party costs: For tenancies commencing after 31 May 2020, it
will no longer be permissible to enforce specific ‘third party’ charges
incorporated within the tenancy agreement, such as professional
cleaning of carpet. A new tenancy agreement should be drawn up to
ensure that any such clauses are included and enforceable.