Even if you are an experienced landlord, using a solicitor is important to protect yourself. Being a landlord can be an extremely rewarding experience - that’s if it runs smoothly. In some cases, and I’m sure you have seen the programme nightmare tenants, there can be disagreements along the way, so it is important that you get the right legal advice.

First of all you should have your tenancy agreement prepared professionally. By leasing your property you are granting a substantial amount of rights to your tenant so this part is essential. Afterall, law can be very complicated and there can be loopholes everywhere so it is important you get the best advice you can from solicitors Chester. 

Solicitors have to undergo a lot of training and have to constantly swot up on new laws that come in the play regularly. They are also regulated too so you can have peace of mind knowing that you are in the right hands. 

Not only are solicitors professionals in tenancy agreements but they can also advise you on the implication of granting a lease to your tenant too. The key to a successful and happy tenancy is for both parties to understand their rights and responsibilities which should be clearly laid out in the tenancy agreement. It is really important that you get this right as it is in black and white what you can and can’t do. 

By being a landlord though you do still have obligations even though you aren’t living in the property, these include:

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  Electrical safety checks which have to be carried out every 5 years.

  
  


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  Preparing an Energy Performance Certificate which should be renewed every 10 years.

  
  


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  Legionella risk assessment testing which has to be carried out every 2 years.

  
  


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  Gas Safety Inspection if the property has gas. This is required every year.

  
  


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  Making sure that there are hard wired interlinked smoke alarms in the property.

  
  


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  To adhere to the Immigration Act 2014 which requires every landlord to check the immigration status of tenants. 

  
  


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  Register with the local council as a landlord which must be renewed every 3 years. If you are not registered you could be fined up to £50,000.