Landlord FAQs: The most common questions asked during Lockdown…
While trying to think about how best to serve our community, we know many people will have a lot of questions right now about what can continue and what can’t. While we don’t have all the answers, we can still advise to the best of our ability on property related needs and transactions. We have compiled our most asked questions by landlords...
Does my tenant need to keep paying rent during the outbreak?
Yes – Rent remains payable. There is no automatic suspension of rental payments during the crisis.
What if they can’t afford rent?
We have advised tenants that if they are having trouble paying rent then they should discuss this with you as soon as possible. Where payments are made to us your tenant has been advised to contact their local branch.
Am I under obligation to help if my tenant is having trouble paying rent?
Government has an expectation that landlords will, where reasonably possible, support tenants in difficulty. However, there is currently no legal obligation on you to support your tenant during the crisis. Tenants have been made aware that any support a landlord can offer will depend on their own personal circumstances.
What kind of help can landlords provide if their tenant is having trouble paying rent?
This will understandably depend on the landlord’s personal circumstances but might include allowing their tenant to make reduced/deferred payments by way of a payment plan. Where a plan is put in place the tenant will be expected to stick to it.
Does the 3 month mortgage holiday on available buy-to-let mortgages have a bearing on the support I might be expected to give?
Yes for landlords whose lender grants a payment holiday in so far as it gives landlords and tenants mutual breathing space and flexibility in cases of genuine hardship. The buy-to-let mortgage holiday is not, however, an excuse for tenants not paying their rent. Although not yet confirmed, we are hearing reports that not all lenders are granting mortgage holidays. Examples include where the borrower is not resident in the UK and/ or has a portfolio of properties. Please check with your lender before extending support to your tenant based on the suspension of mortgage payments.
Is other help available for tenants who are experiencing trouble in paying their rent?
Yes – If tenants are having difficulty paying rent and need further help this is available from their local authority, Shelter, Citizens Advice and The Money Advice Service.
Can I evict my tenant during the crisis?
No – For an initial 90 days from March 27th no tenant will be expected to move and no landlord can take possession. This 90-day period may be extended.
Whilst the possession activity is suspended by the COVID-19 restrictions, PCOL (the Possessions Claim Online system) can be used to issue claims, although the Courts will not be able to action the claim until the three-month suspension period has passed.
Can I be reimbursed for lost rental income?
We suggest contacting your insurance provider for details of cover and any restrictions applied as a result of the crisis.
What if a repair is required at the property during the outbreak?
You are still required to repair the property. There is an expectation that landlords and tenants will be reasonable and sensible around any non-urgent maintenance.
Are you open during the crisis for my tenant to report repairs?
Yes – We’re still available via phone and email. They will also receive helpful advice on what to do in an emergency. Like many employers, we are operating a reduced workforce in the interest of keeping our staff safe. However, both landlords and tenants can still contact us on the usual number or email.
Are there still contractors working to undertake repairs?
Yes – We work with an extensive bank of contractors. At the date of this update, most are working as normal and therefore able to undertake essential maintenance and safety inspections.
What about contractors accessing the property during the crisis?
Keys cannot be collected from our branches during the crisis. To ensure tenant safety and that of the contractor, they will call them directly to arrange access. Tenants should advise them of any self-isolation or illness within the household. When providing access, social distancing protocols should be observed. If the tenant is transferring keys they should do so in a secure envelope ensuring they are sanitised before and after use.
What if my tenant is self-isolating or refuses access to the property?
Your tenant should where reasonable and safe, continue to allow access for repairs and safety inspections. If access is refused then efforts to undertake repairs and carry out safety inspections should be carefully documented and regularly followed up until the work has been completed.
Will my property continue to be marketed for let?
Yes – It will remain advertised through the majority of our usual channels with options for prospective tenants to register interest. With the added feature of our new video tours (see our Facebook page!), we have successfully let over 19 properties over the last month – 7 of which were listed DURING lockdown!
Will I be able to have a market appraisal on my property?
Whilst we are unable to offer this service in person until restrictions on movement have been relaxed, we do have a social distancing valuation facility for those who are occupying the property or already have photos/videos of the property available. Simply click this link, fill in the details, upload the photos and we’ll be in touch with a valuation. Or if easier, just give us a call and we can do the rest!
Will the current crisis affect the rental value?
Impact to the UK's housing market is as yet unknown. We continue to monitor activity within the lettings sector to keep our clients as fully informed as possible.
Will you keep me updated on any changes related to the crisis?
Click here to read the government’s guidance for landlords and tenants during Coronavirus.
Have a question that’s not on here? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch – by phone, email, the online chat, or through our social media. We’re still here to support our local community with all of their property needs and will ensure that we maintain the high standard of service that has secured our reputation locally.