We ask all Landlords to seek advice regarding the following in respect of their property and prior to letting it out.

Insurance

We would recommend that you inform your building and contents insurers of the proposed letting at an early stage to ensure that cover for the property is not prejudiced in any way. Failure to inform your insurance company may result in the company refusing to meet any claim made.

Mortgage Lender

If your property is mortgaged, you will require approval from your Building Society or Lender before you let your property. In most cases consent is given readily but it is wise to seek this consent as early as possible to avoid any undue delays.

Leasehold Property

We would also recommend that you check with your Solicitor to confirm if your lease contains a covenant forbidding the letting of your property. In addition your freeholder should be notified of the proposed letting.

Gas Safety

Gas regulations first came into effect 31st October 1994 to ensure that gas appliances are properly installed and maintained in a safe condition so as to avoid the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning. It is the responsibility of landlords to ensure that ALL gas appliances and gas installation pipe work owned by them are checked for safety at lease once a year by British Gas or a member of the Council for Registered Gas Installers (GasSafe). In addition accurate records of the safety inspections and any work carried out must kept by the landlord or their agent. The current safety certificate must always be available for any tenant prior to them taking occupation of a property. We can arrange for this test to be carried out on your behalf by one of our recommended engineers. You will of course be responsible for the cost incurred.

Electrical Safety

Electrical regulations impose an obligation on a landlord to ensure that all electrical appliances left as part of a rental property are safe. Cabling fuses and plugs should also be inspected and replaced where necessary. We would suggest you get an electrical safety check done before renting out your property to stay in line with new regulations.

Fire Regulations

With effect from 1st March 1993, all upholstered furniture in rented accommodation must comply with the fire resistance requirements of the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended). Furniture made before 1st January 1950 is excluded from these controls. Bedclothes, carpets, curtains, and pillowcases are also excluded. Each piece of furniture that complies with these regulations (except beds and mattresses) should have a rectangular label permanently attached to it with the heading "CARELESSNESS CAUSES FIRE". If the furniture does not have this label or was made before 1988 it will probably not comply with these regulations. Failure to comply with the Furniture and Furnishings Regulations may constitute a criminal offence under the Consumer Protection Act 1987.

Smoke Alarms

The 1991 Building Regulations require that all properties built since June 1992 must be fitted with mains operated interlinked smoke detectors/alarms on each floor. Such regulations regarding older properties do not exist but we strongly recommend that smoke alarms are fitted in all let properties and are regularly checked.