As a market leader for the Rental Sector, we understand that being a landlord can come with many challenges. It is important to be aware of the common claims against landlords and how to avoid them. In this article, we will cover some of the most common claims against landlords and provide you with tips on how to prevent them from happening in the first place.

Disrepair Claims

One of the most common claims against landlords is disrepair. This is where tenants claim that the property is not in a good state and that the landlord has failed to maintain it to an acceptable standard. To avoid disrepair claims, it is important to conduct regular inspections of your property and address any maintenance issues as soon as they arise. You should also provide your tenants with a way to report any issues they may have with the property.

Deposit Disputes

Deposit disputes can be a headache for both landlords and tenants. To avoid deposit disputes, it is important to be clear about what the deposit covers and what can lead to deductions. You should also provide your tenants with a clear inventory of the property before they move in and conduct a thorough inspection when they move out. It is also a legal obligation to ensure that any tenancy deposit is protected under one of three Government approved deposit schemes. We have a full guide to help you understand your obligations.

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Rent Arrears

Rent arrears can be a significant problem for landlords, particularly in times of economic uncertainty. To avoid rent arrears, it is important to screen your tenants carefully and make sure they can afford the rent. You should also have a clear rent collection process in place and communicate regularly with your tenants about their rent payments. 

Noise Complaints

Noise complaints can be a common problem in rental properties, particularly in shared accommodation. To avoid noise complaints, it is important to make sure your tenants understand the importance of being considerate towards their neighbours. You should also provide your tenants with a way to report any noise issues they may have with their neighbours.

Illegal Activity

As a landlord, you have a responsibility to make sure that your property is not being used for illegal activity. To avoid this, it is important to conduct regular inspections of your property and be vigilant for any signs of illegal activity. You should also make sure that your tenancy agreement includes a clause prohibiting illegal activity.

In conclusion, being a landlord can come with many challenges, but by being proactive and taking steps to prevent common claims, you can minimise your risk and protect your investment. Remember to conduct regular inspections of your property, communicate regularly with your tenants, and have clear processes in place for rent collection and deposit disputes. By doing so, you can help ensure that your tenancies run smoothly and avoid any unnecessary claims against you as a landlord.

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