Category Archives: News

What Repairs are Landlords Responsible For?

Landlords are responsible for most repairs to the exterior or structure of a property, for example, the roof, chimney, walls, guttering and drains.  Some structural problems may be covered by your building’s insurance, and you should contact your insurer as soon as possible.  The landlord is also responsible for the repair of sanitary installations (basins,… Continue Reading

Soaring Demand Pushes Rent Higher

The rental market has been strong for a good few years now, and despite reports that mortgages are becoming cheaper than rents, it shows no sign of stopping.  Simply put, if a mortgage company won’t lend to you, it is irrelevant whether a mortgage is cheaper or not!  Agents have reported that properties are being… Continue Reading

Slum Landlord Jailed

Millionaire landlord, Israr Fazal, 54, has been jailed for renting decrepit and dangerous flats in Manchester to vulnerable families.  Up to 12 families, mostly from Eastern Europe, were charged up to £100 per week to live in the squalid conditions.  On the other end of the spectrum, Mr Fazal himself was living in a luxury… Continue Reading

Private Rents in England are Unaffordable, say Shelter

Private rents are now unaffordable in 55% of local authorities in England, according to Shelter. Homes in these areas cost more than 35% of the average local take-home pay (the level considered unaffordable by Shelter’s Private Rent Watch report).  It said private rents in 8% of England’s local authorities were “extremely unaffordable” – with average… Continue Reading

The Difference Between a Section 8 and Section 21

The most basic difference between a section 8 and section 21 is that a section 8 notice is served when a tenant is in breach of contract (eg,, rent arrears), and a section 21 is served to end a tenancy agreement, simply so that the landlord can regain possession. A “section 8 notice to quit”,… Continue Reading