Cold Weather – Your Obligations
December 20, 2010
Given the current cold weather, our specialist legal advisers Pain Smith have advised landlords on what happens if a property is left by the tenant and the pipes freeze and burst.
Pain Smith advise:
consider how unreasonable the tenant’s conduct has been. If the tenant has only been away for a short period and during that time there has been an unexpected cold snap then the tenant will not be liable for burst pipes. However, if the weather is well forecast, or the tenant goes away for an excessive period with no reasonable precautions taken, then the tenant is likely to be liable for burst pipes.
There is a responsibility for landlords to make sure that homes to do not suffer from excess cold. You should ensure the property is properly insulated, has sufficient heating and does not suffer from drafts.
Harmonious Tenant/Landlord Relationships
December 19, 2010
As managing agents, we’re used to working with landlords and tenants to ensure everything runs smoothly. Here are our top tips to help develop harmonious relationships which work for both parties:
- Treat each other as you would expect to be treated yourselves.
- Be available to answer queries.
- Make reasonable requests (tenants) and respond within a reasonable timeframe (landlords).
- Understand and meet the terms of your agreement.
- Landlords should show they care about the property. Set the standard from the outset, ensure the property is well presented and leave behind some basic cleaning products. Tenants should look after the property as if it was their own and remember that only reasonable wear and tear will be tolerated when it comes to check out.
- Be proactive. If there’s anything you’re not sure about, ask. It’s best to be clear from the outset rather than make assumptions.
