Accidental landlords must comply with letting property legislation

Accidental landlords, so called as they have fallen into letting their property as they can’t sell it, must make sure they adhere to letting property legislation.

According to Paragon Mortgages there are numerous Acts of Parliament and various regulations which govern the private rented sector that all landlords must adhere to or risk being fined.

John Heron, Paragon Mortgages managing director, says ‘The onus is on the landlord to make sure they comply with all regulations and they are liable if something goes wrong, even if they employ the services of a letting or managing agent.’

He added ‘Ignorance of legislation is not a defence.’

Landlords must have an Energy Performance Certificate and Gas Safety Certificate for the property.

It’s also important to get landlords insurance in place.

Owner-occupiers could fall foul of their mortgage conditions if they do not advise their lender that they are letting out the property. If the property was repossessed this could have a knock-on effect on any tenants in the property.

It is vital, as Heron concludes, that ‘landlords – accidental or experienced – ensure they have enough understanding of relevant regulations’, and they get help from such as the National Landlords Association or a professional letting agenet, ARLA regiastered, as necessary.

Paragon Mortgages is a leading specialist provider of mortgages to professional and investor landlords.

In addition to mortgages, it provides other services for landlords, including Energy Performance Certificates, insurance and tenant assessment.