Property


Questions frequently asked by landlords


Whom do I need to inform before letting my property?


 You will need to inform your mortgage lender if you have one.


 Your freeholder or the head leaseholder – if the property is leasehold.


 Your insurance company, as you will need to keep your buildings insurance and minimum contents cover. Tenants will have to take out their own insurance cover.


 Local planning and building department if you are changing the use, or part of the building.


What are my responsibilities as a landlord?


Under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 the landlord is required to:


 Keep the structure and exterior of the property, heating and hot water


installations, basins, sinks, baths and toilets in good repair, together with pipes and service supplies to the property.


 Maintain the safety of gas and electricity installations and appliances; to comply with the Gas Safety (installations and use) Regulations 1998; to hold a current valid Gas Safety Certificate on the property; this must not be allowed to expire and must be replaced annually.


 Keep the utility and electrical installations in repair and working order under the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations (1994).


 Comply with the Furniture and Furnishing (Fire Safety) Amendment Regulations 1993 which states that all furniture must have a permanent label clearly showing they are fire resistant.


Hold a current EPC Energy Performance Certificate, which gives the energy rating of the property; this has to be given to any prospective tenant if asked for. A copy of the EPC must be given to a new tenant on check in, free of charge. The landlord must allow the tenant


“quiet enjoyment” and cannot enter the property without permission. A minimum of 24 hours’ written notice is required. The landlord cannot enter the property without the express permission of the tenant. Supplied by Paula Booth, Business Development Manager, Touchstone.


TOUCHSTONE RESIDENTIAL LETTINGS


Having trouble selling? Have you considered renting out your property? www.touchestoneresidential.co.uk


MAIDSTONE


26-28 Albion Place Tel: 01622 682225


WEST MALLING


York House, 11 Swan St Tel: 01732 874990


RAINHAM 21 High Street Tel: 01634 223400


CANTERBURY 29-30 Watling St Tel: 01227 457441


Mid Kent Living 27


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