On the 7^th of November, King Charles III announced that a new Leasehold and Freehold Bill will be one of the government's priorities for the year ahead. The aim of this bill is to increase the number of freehold properties, while also making it easier for leasehold homeowners to extend their leases. Abolishing escalating leasehold charges is also expected to be included as part of a bill to reform the leasehold system.

Below we'll look at the difference between freehold and leasehold properties, and what the key takeaways from the announcement are.

More...

As we approach winter and temperatures drop below 10 degrees, rental properties may begin to show signs of deterioration, including issues like damp and mould.

It's crucial for tenants (now known as contract-holders in Wales) to understand their rights and responsibilities during this season.

Cold weather can take a toll on the property, and there are essential steps every tenant should take to ensure a safe and comfortable living environment.

More...

Since 2003, the number of people over 55 living in private rented accommodation has more than doubled. With more people renting later into their lives, we know that the demographic of older renters is one that needs catering to, but how do you adjust your property when renting to elderly tenants?

A 2018 report found that 93% of 8.5 million rental properties in the UK were inaccessible. As a landlord, making your property accessible for disabled and elderly tenants is not only a compassionate move, but one that taps into a market often neglected.

From health and safety to just making them feel at home, these are the fundamental features you’ll need to consider then renting a room to an elderly person.

More...

Landlords are responsible for the properties they own, which means they’re also responsible for the sustainability of said properties. Building an eco-house, or creating a completely eco-friendly property, is a difficult task, but there are small changes landlords can make to improve their sustainability, however small those improvements may be.

While it’s of course beneficial to the environment, there are a lot of financial benefits of eco-friendly properties, too.

More...

The Renting Homes (Wales) Act 2016 (henceforth referred to as the “Act”), comes into force on 1^st December 2022, so we have prepared a short guide containing the information you need to know below.

All landlords will have to provide their tenants/contract-holders with written statements setting out the terms of the tenancy/occupation-contract and including those new points required by the Act. This needs to be served by 31^st May 2023.

More...