Meet Lynn.
Lynn’s tenant is in arrears.
Lynn didn’t vet the tenant, left things too long, and now doesn’t know what to do.
Don’t get lost like Lynn.
Do the checks.
Renting out a home requires lots of due diligence. With an agent, this should be part of the process. We complete thorough checks using employment referencing, credit scores, CCJ and bankruptcy checks, and landlord references if available. Technology helps us dive faster and deeper into affordability using online banking, payroll providers, and secure connections with HMRC. We also conduct Right to Rent checks. Lastly, 20 years’ experience has taught us telltale signs of a bad tenant.
Do prevent the problem.
Once a tenant moves in, there are other ways to help prevent problems at your property. We offer landlords a rent guarantee service. For less than £30 a month, all rent is covered, as are court costs should the situation escalate.
Do act quickly.
We check rent payments daily, making all parties aware of any missing payments immediately. It could be a standing order ran out or the tenant forgot to transfer funds, but if intentional avoidance, we can start the recovery process straight away.
Don’t avoid the issue.
Talk to your tenant, see about putting a payment plan in place, or contact the guarantor if there is one. An agent will always prefer to sort in house than in court, and they can help keep things with your tenant comfortable not hostile.
Do serve the right notice.
If recovery doesn’t work, it’s time to serve notice. Not only do you need to serve the right notice, it must be at the right time, in the right way. If you don’t know Section 8 from Section 6a, or whether grounds are mandatory or discretionary, use an agent to navigate the minefield for you.
Do possession properly.
As above, taking possession of your property needs to be done properly. You’ll need the right court papers, the right documents, and the property needs to be fully compliant.
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Do use a lettings agent like Orchards:
Overwhelming and expensive on your own? Yes. Easier and more cost-effective with an agent? Absolutely.
01525 40 22 66
ampthill@orchards.co.uk
