© 2025 News On The Block. All rights reserved.
News on the Block is a trading name of Premier Property Media Ltd.
© 2025 News On The Block. All rights reserved.
News on the Block is a trading name of Premier Property Media Ltd.
Following the recent release of the Report for Social Housing commissioned by the Government, it has been reported that people on lower incomes are in a better situation in Council or housing association accommodation than if they were in private landlord accommodation.
Landlords have a duty to supply adequate and decent accommodation, so how do you ensure that you are a good landlord?
Firstly, before even buying a property check that repairs and fixes will be easy to access. Before your tenant moves in, it is a legal requirement for you to have two tests carried out. One is a Gas Safety Certificate for all gas equipment, which must be carried out by a CORGI registered engineer. You will also need a Portable Appliance Test (PAT) on all electrical equipment.
A landlord has a duty to provide a property in a state of good repair and good decoration. This will only help in the long run, giving the incoming tenant a clear vision of what will be expected at the end of the tenancy.
Some tenants will ignore minor problems, but a small water leak can soon be the cause of major damage if not treated. Always show tenants where the stop cock is and how to turn the gas off. Supplying them with a list of emergency contact numbers will help them to deal with a problem quickly.
If your property is managed then your agent should regularly check the building, but if you are managing it yourself, make regular visits to check for potential problems. Smoke detectors have to be checked every year. Remember that your tenant has the right to total privacy, so don’t just let yourself in - make sure that you give adequate notice.
An important point to being a good landlord is understanding your rights and responsibilities as well as those of your tenant.