FAO OF ALL TENANT FIND/LET ONLY PROPERTIES

 

FAO OF ALL TENANT FIND/LET ONLY PROPERTIES Dear Valued Client.   Presumably you have received our numerous updated in regards to the Renters’ Right Act.  As you are aware its a major legal changes coming into force from 1 May 2026, this is not a minor update. It represents the most significant tightening of landlord regulation in decades and will be actively enforced by local councils with substantial financial penalties for non-compliance running into thousands of pounds.   From 1 May 2026, key changes include: Periodic tenancies only Fixed terms become unlawful. Any continuation could lead to enforcement. Section 21 abolished Possession becomes slower, more complex and strictly procedural. Errors can lead to failed cases and potential counterclaims. Rent in advance cap Less financial buffer for landlords. Strong referencing and rent protection become more important than ever. Rental bidding ban Accepting higher offers than advertised can lead to investigation and fines. Stronger anti discrimination rules Even poorly worded or unintentional comments can be challenged. Annual rent increases only via Section 13 Using the wrong process can invalidate increases or expose you to disputes. Tenants can request pets with any refusals must be justified and legally defensible.   Further changes expected later in 2026 include: mandatory PRS database registration a new Landlord Ombudsman new property standards under the Decent Homes Standard Awaab’s Law.   The financial consequences for getting this wrong are significant Up to £7,000 fines for first time breaches Up to £40,000 fines for serious or repeat breaches Rent repayment orders of up to 24 months In some cases criminal prosecution   One accidental £7,000 fine represents years of management fees.   As a Let Only landlord, you remain personally responsible for Legal compliance and documentation Correct notices and rent increases Handling complaints and Ombudsman referrals PRS registration and ongoing updates Meeting new property standards Council enforcement action   Under the new regime, a single mistake can be costly.   How Management can protect you By switching to our Managed service (FROM 7% PLUS VAT), we take on the day to day compliance burden for you. This includes: Keeping your tenancy documentation legally compliant Managing legal requirements and deadlines Ensuring marketing, referencing and communication are compliant Handling tenant complaints and Ombudsman matters correctly Overseeing inspections and property standards Preparing your property for future regulatory changes Ensuring possession processes are handled correctly and defensibly Managing any council involvement professionally, supported by our established working relationships with local authority teams   Free compliance risk review for Let Only landlords If you choose to move your property to our Managed service, we offer a free onboarding process for taking over your property. As part of this, we carry out a full compliance overview, so your property is correctly set up ahead of the Renters’ Rights Act coming into force.   This includes: A full check of all statutory certificates for the property A property inspection prior to the new legislation coming into force Checks on smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms Identifying any early signs of damp or disrepair ahead of Awaab’s Law Highlighting any compliance gaps or risk areas Providing clear, practical advice on what needs addressing and in what timescale   This ensures your property is compliant, documented correctly and prepared for the new enforcement environment.   Why work with us? We are the largest agent in the area & an award-winning letting agent and proud to be the number one Whitegates office nationally for 2025, making this 10 years in a row achieving this recognition.   This reflects our compliance standards, operational processes and results for landlords across the region. In a regulatory environment that is becoming stricter and more punitive, choosing the right managing agent is as important as choosing the right tenant.   Please contact me or our management team who will be happy to discuss your current setup and how we can support you through the upcoming changes.