Dear Landlords,

May we start by saying thank you.

Thank you to all of the landlords who have taken the time to contact us and to discuss as best we can, the plans for the future.

We have all come to terms with the reality that in this uncertain time, rent arrears may be a possibility, but we want to reassure you that we are encouraging our tenants to work with us in order to minimise the risk of these happening. We are actively helping tenants get the help they need from the government and local councils to minimise arrears.

We will continue to be here for you and your tenant throughout the coming months, however we do all have a part to play in ridding ourselves of this dreadful virus, and it starts with us minimising physical contact.

All members of staff have been given the provisions to continue working securely from home. Our phone lines and emails will continue to operate as normal however we are taking precautions to protect you, your tenant and our staff.

As of this week;

1.       All property inspections are being postponed.

2.       We have contacted the Gas Safe register for information pertaining to the gas safety procedure, at this time they have advised to carry out “investigations” but have said they will respond separately in regards to “inspections”. As soon as we have an update for this we will let you know.

3.       For properties currently on the market, understandably viewings are now not possible. We are actively discussing properties with potential tenants still and providing them with video tours where possible.

4.       Essential maintenance will be the priority for all members of staff here, ensuring boilers, water supplies, electricity etc remain uninterrupted.

5.       Should rent arrears occur we will work with you in order to best resolve them with your tenant.

Our service to you will continue through this difficult period, and if you have any questions or concerns please do call or email us.

We continue to be available by phone and by email Monday to Saturday.

Our best advice during this period is that if your enquiry is urgent to please email team@orchards.co.uk to ensure an available member of the team receives it.

Please continue to call our normal landline number of 01525 40 22 66.

Kindest Regards

The Whole Team at Orchards