A guide to landlord and tenant law

Landlord and tenancy laws are continuously changing, so it is important to always refer to up-to-date legislation when investigating any aspect of letting laws. However, the basic rights and responsibilities of landlords and tenants remain fundamentally the same.

Landlord's rights and responsibilites

The landlord's responsibilities include the following: - They must provide repairs to the structure and exterior of the property, heating and hot water installations (basins, sinks, baths etc). - Ensure the safety of gas and electrical appliances. - Ensure that the property is suitable for habitation. - Repair and keep the room and water heating equipment in working order. - Ensure that the fire safety of furniture and furnishings provided under the tenancy is adequate. The landlord's rights include the following: Taking possession If the rent is not paid, the landlord has the right to take possession of the property. Removal of goods Any possessions left by the tenant then becomes the property of the landlord. Inspection After giving 24-hour notice, the landlord may enter the property for inspection. Overdue payments The landlord can visit the tenant and request payment in person. Insurance The landlord must take out adequate buildings insurance.

Tenant's rights and responsibilities

The tenant's responsibilities include the following: - To pay the rent and taking good care of the property. - To pay bills for gas, electricity, telephone, etc. - In the majority of cases, to pay the council tax, water and sewerage charges. The tenant's rights include the following: Tenancy agreements The tenant must have an up to date copy of the tenancy agreement Contact details The landlord must provide the tenant with their name, address and contact details Adequate facilities Suitable living conditions and working appliances are essential Repairs Repairs must be completed promptly and adequately. Insurance Possessions will not be included on the landlord's insurance, so a tenant should take out their own contents insurance.

Protecting deposits

Due to problems and disagreements regarding return of bonds/deposits, it is now a legal requirement for all landlords to place the deposit into a government scheme immediately. This new law ensures that both parties are treated fairly, and removes any element of deception or unfair practice. The money remains in one of these holdings for the entirety of the rental. On departure from the property, the tenant must receive the promised amount within a 30-day period. If this is not reimbursed in this time frame, then they are entitled to the whole sum, regardless of any damage caused to the property. The landlord also has to prove that they are using the money withheld to repair any damage allegedly caused.