Lettings
We offer a range of letting information for both tenants and landlords
- Tenants Information.
- Landlord Obligations.
Tenants Information
Highfield Property Management is a member of the Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) and The Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS). ARLA seek to promote the provision of the highest standards of service to both tenants and landlords.
As members we adhere to these standards, we are fully bonded and have professional and highly motivated staff with an in-depth knowledge in the field of letting, and certification in the latest ARLA exams.
Bonds
All our properties require bonds on deposit against any dilapidation's at the end of the tenancy. See individual property details for amounts.
References
Full Time Employed
One reference from employer on official letter headed paper with a contact name and telephone number. One character reference from a person known to the prospective tenant for four years or more but not family or relative.
Self Employed
Accountants report or Business Bank Statement. One character reference from a person known to the prospective tenant for four years or more but not family or relative.
Unemployed
Two character references from 2 non-related people known to the prospective tenant for four years or more but not family or relative.
Guarantor
A guarantor will be required if the prospective tenant is unemployed, working part-time, working full-time but less than 18 months in their current job or if under 25 years of age. Proof of earnings will be required.
Rent
Rent is payable in advance either weekly or monthly as described on individual properties.
Landlord Obligations
Mortgage Requirements
As a landlord you must get your lenders permission to let the property. Failure to do so will be in breach of your mortgage agreement.
Leasehold Properties
If your property is subject to a head lease you must obtain the permission letter, and we must have a copy of the lease to enable the tenant to comply with its terms.
Tax
Rental income is taxable and you must declare this income on your tax returns. If you do not receive an annual tax return then you must inform the Inland Revenue if you think this income could affect your tax liability. As agents if we are asked by the Inland Revenue about you then by law we must give the information out. You will be taxed on rental income less any deductible expenses. These include letting agent and tax advisors fees, property maintenance (not improvements), utility charges and a 10% wear and tear allowance.If you are based overseas then you will be classed as a Non UK resident landlord. You are also liable to income tax. We recommend that you register with the Inland Revenue under the "Non-resident Landlord Scheme" and obtain a tax exemption certificate. If you require any further assistance in this matter please do not hesitate to contact either your local tax office or ourselves.
Insurance
You must tell your insurance company, or you may find that your buildings and contents policy is invalid and cancelled. Your insurance company may have to increase your premium or even may no longer be able to insure the property. If this is the case we will be more than happy to recommend specialist landlord insurance.
Gas Safety Regulations 1994
It is a legal requirement under the above regulations that all gas appliances installed in any part of the premises must be checked annually by a CORGI registered installer and that these appliances are maintained in a safe condition. If any defects are found these must be rectified, otherwise British Gas has the power to disconnect the supply. A gas safety check must be carried out prior to a tenant moving into the property, unless a current certificate is available. A copy of the current Gas Safety Certificate must be kept on our files and a copy given to the tenant when they move into the property. N.B. We would be happy to carry out the Landlord gas safety check via our in-house Corgi Registered Representative and offer this service at very reasonable rates.
Electrical Safety
At present legislation only states that all appliances supplied must be "SAFE", but we recommend that all appliances be inspected on an annual basis.
Fire Safety, Furniture.
The Consumer Protection Act 1987 and the 1988 Regulations make it an offence to supply in the course of business furniture that does not meet what are known as the "4 cigarette test", the "match test" and the "ignitability test". The regulation applies to upholstery, upholstery furnishings, loose fittings, permanent or loose covers, e.g. Chairs, sofas, mattresses, headboards, cushions, pillows, upholstered stools etc. The regulations do not apply to furniture manufactured before 1st January 1950.
Fire Safety, Property
Building Regulations 1991 state that all new properties must have a smoke alarm fitted to each floor. Our recommendations are that all let property should be supplied with an appropriate fire extinguisher as well as a standard smoke alarm.
