Tips on how to avoid rogue landlords
Over the past years, cases of rogue landlords have crept their way in. This gives the letting industry a negative reputation. Although, you may find that from ten landlords, only a small number have unprofessional tendencies, masking the entire industry negatively. Having a peaceful and fruitful encounter with the landlord is every tenant's desire.
Never rely on online photos
In most cases, especially when searching for a house online, we tend to have high expectations, based on the pictures provided. You may consider meeting the landlord as you conduct a physical view of the house in question.
Use a regulated agent
Use a regulated agent or website while looking for properties. Before you use a agent, make sure you research into who they are and what their reviews say about them.
Tenancy Agreement
Ensure you read through the tenancy agreement as it clearly outlines your rights and privileges as a tenant.
Deposits
Once the tenancy contract comes to an end, we all expect to get our deposit back, right? You may ask your landlord for proof of how your deposit is protected. In the UK, the government has established schemes that the landlords are required to use to keep your deposit safe.
Take caution if you are requested to make a larger “holding” fee payment than required by legislation to secure a rental property. Take extra caution if they demand cash only.
Communication and Repair Responsibility.
Once you have found an ideal house, ensure you confirm from your landlord, who is responsible for repairs before signing the agreement contract. Keep everything in writing!
Proof of Payment
Ensure you keep track of your payments receipts just in case of future disputes.
In case of any infringement of your rights, you can consider airing your complaint to the local courts, taking with you all the necessary and available documentation for proof. Although it is always advised that if there are any disagreements with your landlord, that you try your best to solve the dispute peacefully as in most tenant-landlord cases. Also, by addressing your disagreement through court, may end up damaging your long-term relationship with your landlord.