COVID19: INFORMATION FOR PRIVATE LANDLORDS & TENANTS

Current government guidelines will mean some changes to private renting; the government has encouraged landlords and tenants to adopt a pragmatic and common-sense approach during this period. 

Please follow the link below for guidance for landlords and tenants in the context of Coronavirus. The guidance contains important information about possession proceedings, rent payments and access to properties for urgent repairs:

https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/covid-19-and-renting-guidance-for-landlords-tenants-and-local-authorities

GAS SAFETY CHECKS

Landlords still have a duty of care to their tenants, including annual gas safety checks. Landlords should continue to arrange gas safety checks if they are due, and should discuss appropriate distancing measures with their gas engineer. 

If landlords are unable to complete a gas safety check due to tenants self-isolating or a shortage of available engineers, they should keep a record of their attempts to complete the check, and arrange for it to be done as soon as is practicably possible. Please see the below statement from the Health & Safety Executive for further advice:

https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/help-and-advice/covid-19-advice-and-guidance/

WORKING SAFELY IN OTHER PEOPLE'S HOMES

Follow the link below for the latest government guidance for people working in, visiting or delivering to other people's homes during the ongoing pandemic.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/working-safely-during-coronavirus-covid-19/homes

Electrical Installation Condition Reports (New Legislation)

From the 1st July 2020 all new tenancies in private rented sector will be required to have an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR). From the 1st April 2021 this requirement will extend to all existing tenancies.

Click on the following link for more information - Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).

 

Private Rented Sector

 

The private rented sector plays an important role in the provision of housing in the borough, and the Council is keen to encourage its improvement to meet the demand for good quality rented accommodation.

Please read our pages on:

• The Good Landlord & Agent Scheme
• Selective Licensing 
• Private landlords responsibilities
• HMO's

Landlords – Important Information for Changes to Legislation (01 Oct 2015)

• Retaliatory Evictions and Other Changes to Evictions
• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Regulations 

Information from HMRC

To view the latest HMRC webinars for advice and information  Click Here

The HMRC also has an online e-learning course that provides guidance on property lettings Click Here