Landlord advice and guidance

Guide to commercial landlord laws and regulations

A guide to all the law and regulations that commercial landlords need to know about.

Who pays for building insurance on commercial property?

Who is responsible for insuring a commercial building? We answer landlord and tenant questions.

Commercial landlord insurance FAQs

Find out everything you need to know about commercial property insurance in our quick guide for commercial landlords.

Complete guide to being a commercial landlord

Complete guide to being a commercial landlord, including the pros and cons, and your rights and responsibilities.

Using your pension to invest in commercial property

Investing in commercial property can be beneficial if you’re a business owner, as you’ll have premises for your company plus regular payments into your pension.

What is Commercial Property Insurance?

Commercial Property Insurance is one of the most important things to remember when purchasing your new property.

Commercial landlord responsibilities

If you own a commercial property for rent, you’ll know it comes with certain responsibilities. But there's often confusion about who is responsible for what; landlord or tenant?

Multiple properties insurance: a brief guide

Do you have a portfolio of residential or commercial properties – or both? If so, you may be considering multi-property insurance. Our guide talks you through the different types of cover available to you.

Rent Smart Wales - FAQs for landlords

If you are a landlord and you rent out property in Wales, it is crucial you understand the Rent Smart Wales scheme. We answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the scheme.

Guide to landlord risks | The cost of being a landlord

Becoming a landlord: what are the risks, and how can you avoid them? There’s a lot to think about when you become a landlord, but understanding what you need to do and how to avoid some of the common pitfalls makes the process easier.

Do I need landlord insurance?

From buy-to-let portfolio owners to people renting out a room in their home, different kinds of landlords need different types of landlord insurance. In this article we look at some of the common questions that arise when considering landlord insurance.

Rent guarantee insurance; a necessary policy as the cost of living rises?

Inflation is the highest it’s been for 30 years, and rising prices are pushing more and more households towards a cost-of-living crisis. This is likely to culminate in some tenants struggling to pay their rent. How can landlords and letting agents protect their rental income and investment?

Landlord's guide to rent to rent

Rent-to-rent: is it the right option for you? It’s a way of becoming a landlord without the need for an upfront investment, but make sure you know what to expect from such a scheme.

Advice for accidental landlords

Have you become an accidental landlord? Our guide gives you everything you need to navigate your way through the realities of becoming a landlord.

Landlord insurance: a beginner's guide

Landlord insurance: where do you start, and what do you look out for? It can feel like you’re navigating a minefield when it comes to taking out landlord insurance, our guide can help you find the level of cover that’ll give you peace of mind.

Landlord's guide to notice of abandonment

If a tenant disappears midway through a tenancy agreement, what can you do? It’s important to know what your rights and responsibilities are as a landlord if you find that one of your tenants has abandoned a property.

Landlord insurance vs home insurance

If you have tenants, it’s important that you take out the right protection – because a standard home insurance policy won’t be suitable.

What are the differences between buildings insurance and home insurance?

Whether you are a first time landlord or you have been renting out properties for many years, having the right insurance in place is critical. In this article, we look at whether buildings insurance is the same as home insurance.

Your questions answered: buildings insurance & exchange of contracts

Whether you are a landlord with a portfolio of homes, or this is your first buy-to-let property, understanding your responsibilities in the sale is vital. We answer all your questions about buildings insurance and exchanging contracts on a property.

What is HMO insurance? | The ultimate guide to HMOs

HMO insurance (house of multiple occupancies) is no different from standard property owners insurance in what cover is provided.

All you need to know about Landlord Legal Expenses cover

Find out what landlord legal expenses insurance is and how it can provide a vital safety net in a host of different scenarios.

What type of Landlord insurance do I need?

We look at the many types of landlord insurance available to help property owners get the correct insurance they need.

Landlords insurance – top 10 things to look out for

Comparing insurance quotes can be hard work. Steve Cox, Business Account Manager at Alan Boswell Group, provides his top 10 tips to help you find the right landlord insurance for your buy-to-let property.

Underinsurance in property - it's a risky business

Underinsurance is a big risk for property owners. Here's how you can make sure your property is insured for the right amount and avoid any nasty surprises in the event of a claim

The impact of tenant referencing on rent guarantee insurance

In order for a tenant to qualify for rent guarantee insurance, they must pass referencing. This consists of three elements: affordability, credit check and identification

Holiday-let insurance: which one is right for you?

For those with a property portfolio or second home, have you thought about what your insurance needs may be?

Is rising damp covered by buildings insurance?

Join us as we take a look at what rising damp is and whether it's covered by your buildings insurance

A-Z of buy-to-let insurance

Struggling to decipher all the insurance jargon that comes with your first buy-to-let property? Our guide will help you make sense of your options

Public Liability Insurance for landlords: what you need to know

Find out more about Public Liability insurance for landlords and the vital protection it provides

Do I need landlord insurance if I'm letting to family?

With as many as 730,000 parent landlords in the UK, we take a look at the insurance you need when renting property to family

Do I need landlord insurance for a flat?

Do you need landlord insurance? If you rent out a flat, you will have wondered if you need landlord insurance. We explore your responsibilities and the types of insurance for flats.

5 reasons every landlord needs rent guarantee insurance

Not convinced that rent guarantee insurance is for you? Here are our top five reasons that you shouldn’t be without it.

The importance of rent guarantee insurance

Learn why rent guarantee insurance is a vital consideration for all landlords.

Private rented sector statistics 2021

The private rental market: what are the latest trends? We take a look at the latest private rental statistics so that you can stay informed on the rental market in the UK.

Guide to landlord risks | The cost of being a landlord

Becoming a landlord: what are the risks, and how can you avoid them? There’s a lot to think about when you become a landlord, but understanding what you need to do and how to avoid some of the common pitfalls makes the process easier.

How to work out rental yield 

Use our rental yield calculator to work out the value of your property investment, plus how to work it out manually, why it matters, and what is a good rental yield?

Thinking about diversifying into holiday lets?

One of the most popular, and successful, forms of farm diversification is converting farm buildings into holiday accommodation. If you're thinking of joining over 60% of UK farmers who have done this, make sure you've got the right insurance in place.

Using your pension to invest in commercial property

Investing in commercial property can be beneficial if you’re a business owner, as you’ll have premises for your company plus regular payments into your pension.

Holiday Home vs Buy-to-Let

Is it more profitable to buy a holiday home or buy-to-let property? We look at the factors involved.

Landlord's guide to improving EPC ratings

The law has changed on Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings for private rental properties. Find out the latest, and changes set to come in the future.

Landlord questions to ask potential tenants

How can you make sure you get the possible tenant for your property? We take a look at some of the questions landlords can ask prospective tenants.

Landlord's responsibilities for pest control

Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, it’s not a pleasant experience dealing with a pest infestation. We look at landlord's and tenant's responsibilities for pest control.

The documents you need as a landlord

In this article, we’ve created an up-to-date landlord documents checklist to help you make sure you’ve got all of your paperwork covered.

What is a Section 8 notice?

Here, we look at Section 8 notices in more detail and the circumstances in which they can be used. For example, Section 8 notices are typically served when tenants are in arrears.

A quick guide to the Government's private renters reform White Paper

On the 16th of June the long-awaited whitepaper on private renters reforms proposed for England was published. We take a look at some of the proposed reforms and how they will affect landlords and tenants.

Right-to-rent checks

Under the right to rent scheme, landlords must check that prospective tenants have the right to live in the UK before renting out property. Failure to do so can result in heavy fines and even a prison sentence.

Fire safety rules for landlords

Landlords have a legal responsibility to adhere to fire regulations for rental properties, to protect both their tenants and their investment. In this guide to fire safety rules for landlords, we explain all the mandatory regulations for both domestic and commercial properties, including vital gas and electrical safety certificates.

Fit for human habitation: what landlords need to know before renting out a property

It’s important to understand what the law requires you to provide for your tenants, and what you should do if there is a problem.

Guide to the Non-Resident Landlord Scheme

The Non-Resident Landlord Scheme applies to landlords who own rented property in the UK but spend more than six months abroad. Read our guide to the scheme including what to do if it applies to you.

Guide to evicting a tenant

It can be tough when a tenancy doesn’t work out. Our guide explains how to regain possession legally and fairly, making sure tenants are notified correctly.

What is Section 11 under the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985?

In this guide we’ll explore the implications of section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 for both tenants and landlords. 

Landlord responsibilities – changes to electrical safety regulations 2021/2022

Updates to landlord legislation in England and Scotland mean that rental properties must comply with new electrical safety standards.

A guide To The Tenant Fees Act 2019

landlords are banned from charging certain fees – but what’s prohibited and what are the consequences for breaking the rules? Here’s what landlords and letting agents need to know about the tenant fees ban.

What is section 24?

Here, we explore how Section 24 works, how it affects landlord income and what you can do to off-set the effects. such as Tax relief changes and the impact on income.

What is an EPC? Regulations Explained

Properties built, sold or leased since 2008 require an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) and will be affected by Minimum Energy Efficiency Standard (MEES). Do you know how to stay compliant?

The end of “no-fault” evictions and what it means for landlords

The Government’s plans to ban so-called “no-fault” evictions has caused controversy since its announcement in April, with landlords groups claiming it will push up rents and shrink the supply of rental homes.

What is a Section 21 Notice?

Join us as we explore what a Section 21 Notice is and how landlords can use it to regain possession of their buy-to-let property

Top tips for landlords to help tenants during the cost of living crisis

With the average UK household predicted to spend 54% of their post-tax income on rent and household bills by the end of 2022, it’s clear that the pressure on landlords and tenants financials is set to increase. To help ease the financial pressure, we’ve put together our top tips for landlords to help tenants amid the cost-of-living crisis.

Landlord's guide to improving EPC ratings

The law has changed on Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) ratings for private rental properties. Find out the latest, and changes set to come in the future.

Private rented sector statistics 2021

The private rental market: what are the latest trends? We take a look at the latest private rental statistics so that you can stay informed on the rental market in the UK.

Landlord's guide to renting to tenants with pets

The proposed new legislation makes it likely that most landlords will no longer be able to refuse tenancies to pet owners. Read our landlord's guide to private renting to tenants with pets.

A quick guide to the Government's private renters reform White Paper

On the 16th of June the long-awaited whitepaper on private renters reforms proposed for England was published. We take a look at some of the proposed reforms and how they will affect landlords and tenants.

Guide to landlord accreditation schemes and courses

In most parts of the UK landlord accreditation schemes and courses are not compulsory. Even so, growing numbers of landlords are signing up, keen to enjoy the benefits they offer.

The landlord's guide to buy-to-let

Are you thinking of becoming a buy-to-let landlord? Or recently purchased a property you plan on letting out? If so, our buy-to-let guide for landlords helps you make the best of your new investment.

Is buy-to-let worth it?

Buy-to-let landlords: what are the risks and rewards of buying a rental property? If you are thinking of becoming a landlord, make sure you know what’s expected of you and how to make the most of your investment.

Landlords: A guide to DSS tenants

A DSS tenant is someone who pays their rent with housing benefit. The term DSS is still used even though the DSS no longer exists as an organisation.

Landlord’s guide to government deposit schemes

Many landlords take a deposit from their tenants prior to them moving in to help protect themselves from any damage or unpaid rent. In this guide we'll explain everything you need to know about tenancy deposits.

Landlords: A guide to increasing rent

Increasing rent can lead to tricky conversations. Here, we explore when rent increases might be appropriate, how to approach the subject and implement changes.

Guide to live-in landlords

If you rent out a room or part of your home to a tenant or lodger, while also living there yourself, you’re classed as a ‘live-in’ or ‘resident’ landlord. Taking on a lodger, or tenant, can earn you some extra money, but it pays to be aware of the procedures you need to follow, and the rights and responsibilities of both parties.

Top 10 tips for landlords, from UK landlord associations

We spoke to our network of landlord associations and asked them what their top tips for landlords were. Here are the top 10 tips from those in the know.

Top five documents every landlord needs

We asked a panel of top landlord associations what the most important documents are for landlords. Make sure you have the documents you need in place.

Damp and mould in rental property

Damp and mould can cause serious issues. Here, we take a look at the causes of damp and the responsibilities tenants and landlords both have in resolving the problem.

A landlord’s guide to property inspections

The main reason for a house inspection is to assess the current state of your rental property both inside and outside. It’s an opportunity to make sure that everything is working as it should.

Essential guide to the best property inventory list

To help you prepare and implement an effective report, here’s our essential guide on how to create the best property inventory.  

Landlord responsibilities: fixtures and fittings guide

In this guide we look at the specific responsibilities relating to fixtures & fittings and who is responsible, the tenant or the landlord.

Your essential landlord checklist

As a property owner you will have far more work to do than many people realise. We've put together an essential landlord checklist to make sure you've got things covered

Letting agent fees for landlords

If you’re a landlord using a letting agent, what responsibilities can you outsource and how much can you expect to pay? Find out in our guide to letting agent fees.

End of tenancy cleaning - a guide for landlords

End of tenancy cleaning causes more disputes between landlords and tenants than any other single issue. We've put together this guide to cover everything both landlords and tenants need to know to make sure the end of tenancy cleaning process is as smooth as possible.

Why you should join a Landlords Association

Keeping up with frequent legislative amendments, as well as large scale regulation reform, can seem like a never-ending task; Find all the benefits of joining a landlord association.

What is ‘wear and tear’ in a rental property?

Whether you're a landlord or a tenant, it's essential that you understand the level of wear and tear you can expect during a tenancy.

A quick guide to the Government's private renters reform White Paper

On the 16th of June the long-awaited whitepaper on private renters reforms proposed for England was published. We take a look at some of the proposed reforms and how they will affect landlords and tenants.

Multiple properties insurance: a brief guide

Do you have a portfolio of residential or commercial properties – or both? If so, you may be considering multi-property insurance. Our guide talks you through the different types of cover available to you.

Electrical checks for landlords | EICR report guide

Do you need an EICR report before you let out a property? Do you know the difference between Periodic Inspection Reports and Visual Inspection reports? Our guide to EICR for landlords answers these questions and more.

Rent Smart Wales - FAQs for landlords

If you are a landlord and you rent out property in Wales, it is crucial you understand the Rent Smart Wales scheme. We answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the scheme.

Guide to landlord risks | The cost of being a landlord

Becoming a landlord: what are the risks, and how can you avoid them? There’s a lot to think about when you become a landlord, but understanding what you need to do and how to avoid some of the common pitfalls makes the process easier.

Guide to landlord responsibilities

What are the legal responsibilities and obligations of a private landlord? Read our complete guide.

A guide to understanding landlord harassment

Landlord harassment is essentially anything a landlord does that prevents tenants from living peacefully in their homes. Examples of landlord harassment in the UK vary widely but includes incidents such as changing the locks without tenants’ knowledge.

Guide to reducing and insuring against malicious damage

Malicious damage is damage done on purpose. Fundamentally, it’s a type of vandalism where the person doing the damage wants to cause destruction and harm.

A guide to landlord right of entry

In our guide navigate through the various legislations ensures both landlords and tenants rights are respected.

Landlord certificate requirements

Landlords must ensure that a range of safety checks are carried out before you rent a property, and different documents are required in Scotland and Northern Ireland. Find the full Landlord certificate list

Landlord fines: the risk of renting an unfit property

Is your property fit for your tenants? We take a look at a landlord's responsibilities for rented properties.

Landlord tax guide

Tax can be a complicated subject for landlords, such as income tax, stamp duty, capital gains tax, corporation tax, and landlord tax relief. We've teamed up with Norwich Accountancy Services to provide some detail on tax for landlords.

How much tax do I need to pay on rental income?

Tax on rental income can be complex to navigate. To ensure you don’t get caught out, here’s what you need to consider when paying tax on your rental income.

Guide to the different types of tenancy agreements

We break down the different tenancy agreements available for property owners within the UK and explain the purpose behind them

Top five tips for finding good tenants

We spoke with our network of letting agents and landlord associations to find out their tips for finding quality tenants for your buy-to-let property. Here are their top five!

A landlords guide to sitting tenants

If you’re a landlord looking to sell, find out what a sitting tenant means for you, including their rights and your options.

Do your tenants work from home?

If your tenants work from home, there could be implications for the landlord. Find out what you can do to protect yourself

Why it's important to protect against subletting

Join us as we explore the dangers of tenants subletting your property.