Guidance For Hornchurch Landlords

With the Government advising agents that the rental and housing market can re-open, there is renewed interest in the lettings market. This is positive news for landlords and tenants; however, it is vital that people follow social distancing measures, and make safety a priority.

Ben Beadle is the Chief Executive of the National Residential Landlords Association, and he said: “Tenants will now be able to look for a new home and move into it while those landlords who have unexpectedly faced empty properties will be able to put them back on the market. It is vital though that all viewings and house moves take place safely and in line with the Government’s guidance. We will continue to work with the Government, landlords and others to ensure the risks of spreading coronavirus are minimized.”

Follow the newly issued Government guidelines

The Government has issued new guidelines, and if you are a Hornchurch landlord, we are here to ensure you provide a safe and reliable service to your tenants. More detailed guidance can be found on the Government website.

Online viewing is recommended, but if physical viewings need to be carried out, they can be undertaken as long as social distancing measures are in place. No matter the level of desire to conclude a tenancy agreement, safety comes first.

If tenants are self-isolating or showing symptoms of COVID-19, physical viewings cannot take place.

Only essential repair work should be carried out during lockdown

If repair work needs to be carried out, landlords are requested to carry this out in between a former tenant moving out and a new tenant moving in. If this isn’t possible, visits should be carried out by appointment.

Measures should be introduced to minimise physical contact, such as tenants agreeing to stay in one room during any visit.

It is helpful to follow advice and guidance from leading experts and trusted sources. There is no denying ARLA Propertymark is one of the leading names in the UK rental sector, and when they issue statements, landlords pay attention.

David Cox, chief executive of ARLA Propertymark, said: “It is great news for consumers and the industry that the housing market is being opened up and people can let, rent, buy and sell properties again. The new regulations provide clarity to agents and will allow them to deal with pent up demand from consumers. It’s also a step to reinvigorating the housing market and will be a boost to the economy.”

David continued by saying; “Safety of course will be paramount, and we would encourage everyone to ensure that they follow Government guidelines closely to protect others and themselves.”

Landlords must still follow legislation

Just because we have been enduring lockdown doesn’t mean legislation doesn’t have to be followed. Landlords must also contend with new legislation, such as the impending electrical safety regulations.

The EICR requirement comes into effect from 1st July for all new tenancies and it will be mandatory for any tenancy from 1st April 2021. If you need to make changes to your rental property to comply with these regulations, it is best to do so sooner rather than later.

We know many Hornchurch landlords will have questions about how they should operate at this time. If you have any questions regarding the local lettings market, please get in touch.

If you are keen to stay in touch with the local housing market, we can help. At Hunters Hornchurch, we are on hand to ensure you receive all the guidance you need in the local property market, and we are here to assist you.