Kate Eales
Head of Regional Residential Agency
On 28th March the Government introduced a number of measures to protect tenants and landlords affected by the coronavirus. We outline some of the key points for both landlords and tenants below.
Notices
The measures ensure that no tenant whether in private rented accommodation or social housing will be evicted from their home during this difficult time. A special law means that from 26 March, all landlords will have to give tenants three months’ notice if they intend to seek possession of their property. This means that a landlord may not apply to the courts for possession until this period has lapsed and currently remains in place until 30 September, although this subject to review.
Mortgage payment holiday
It has been confirmed that the three month mortgage payment holiday has been extended to include landlords whose tenants are facing financial difficulties due to the virus and will also include landlords with buy to let mortgages.
Rents and repayment plans
We would encourage tenants who are concerned with their ability to pay rent during this time to contact a member of the Strutt & Parker team so as to come to an arrangement regarding their payments. Where a tenant is experiencing difficulties, both landlords and tenants are expected to try and agree an affordable payment plan, taking into account each tenant’s own circumstances. If you are a landlord and this applies to your tenant then do get in touch to discuss at the earliest opportunity.
Managed properties
In line with government guidelines, regular property visits to managed properties have been postponed until the current restrictions have been listed. Tenants should also be aware that contractors will only carry out works when attending emergency maintenance issues or essential repairs.
Landlord's legal obligations
As a landlord you or your managing agent must ensure that essential repairs are dealt with as quickly as possible. It remains the landlord’s obligation to remedy loss of heating or hot water, significant water ingress, sewage leaks and the security of the property.
Gas safety checks and a landlord’s obligation to repair and maintain gas pipework, flues and appliances are still a legal requirement. Wherever possible safety checks should be carried out in a safe manner.
It is recommend that checks are booked in ahead of time where possible, bearing in mind that they can be carried out two months in advance of when they are due and still be valid for a full twelve months from the original expiry date.
Marketing your property
Under the current restrictions only essential moves that cannot be delayed can go ahead, and this must be in line with social distancing rules. On this basis any offers agreed will have to have a flexible move in date until the Government advises to the contrary.