INDUSTRY NEWS
A brief reference to recent legislation which has affected the lettings market Please contact our offices should you require more detailed information.
ENERGY PERFORMANCE CERTIFICATES.
From 1st October 2008, all rental properties with a new tenancy in England and Wales will be required to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
References:
homeinformationpack.gov.uk MBM Management can arrange for an EPC survey at a cost of £76.38 inclusive of VAT.
TENANCY DEPOSIT SCHEMES.
Tenancy deposit protection is a simple process which ensures tenancy deposits are safeguarded against disputes. It is a legal requirement for landlords and applies to all new assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) in England and Wales entered into after April 6th 2007.
References:
Insurance based schemes
Custodial Scheme
HOUSE HEALTH & SAFETY RATING SYSTEM (HHSRS).
This system replaces the fitness standards for dwellings. It is a new risk based system for deciding whether a house is healthy and safe. There are 29 hazards which have been assessed and the likelihood of injury or ill health from each is calculated. Enforcement powers will cover matters that previously could not be dealt with such as the risk of falls and tripping.
References:
HOUSES IN MULTIPLE OCCUPATION (HMOs).
It is generally understood that a mandatory licence will be required for dwellings which are three or more storeys, contain five or more people who make up two or more families and share common facilities.
References:
OMBUDSMAN FOR ESTATE AGENTS.
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NON RESIDENT LANDLORDS.
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