Landlord FAQs

Answers to the most common questions from property landlords.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about buying a property with Livco.

Getting Started as a Landlord

What to consider before renting out your property

Do I need a license to rent out my property?

Certain properties require a landlord licence, depending on the local council and type of property. We can advise whether your property needs a licence and help you navigate the application process.

What legal obligations do I have as a landlord?

Landlords have responsibilities under tenancy law, including ensuring the property is safe, maintaining certain standards, protecting deposits, and providing required documentation such as gas safety certificates. We guide landlords to meet all legal obligations efficiently.

What insurance do I need as a landlord?

Landlord insurance typically covers building structure, contents you own, liability, and loss of rent. We can advise on appropriate cover to protect your investment.

What tax implications are there for renting my property?

Rental income may be subject to income tax, and you may be able to claim certain allowable expenses. We can advise you to ensure compliance and help maximise efficiency within current legislation.

Should I use a letting agent or manage the property myself?

Managing a property yourself is possible, but working with a letting agent can save time, ensure legal compliance, and reduce risk. We provide full management services or tailored support depending on your needs and experience as a landlord.

Preparing & Letting Your Property

How to get your property ready and find the right tenants.

How do I set the right rent for my property?

We can provide a professional market appraisal to help set a competitive rent. It’s important to consider location, property size, condition, and comparable rental properties nearby to attract reliable tenants quickly.

How do I find reliable tenants?

We carefully vet tenants through referencing, affordability checks, and previous landlord references. Our goal is to match you with tenants who are financially stable and likely to respect your property.

How do tenancy agreements work, and what should be included?

Tenancy agreements outline the responsibilities of both landlord and tenant. They include rent, deposit details, term length, notice periods, and rules about pets, subletting, and property use. We provide fully compliant agreements and ensure both parties understand their rights.

How long should my tenancy agreement be?

Most agreements start with a fixed term, often six or twelve months. At the end of the term, agreements can be renewed or converted into rolling tenancies. We can advise on what length is most suitable for your property and goals.

What deposits can I request, and how should they be protected?

You can request a security deposit, usually equivalent to 4–6 weeks’ rent. This must be protected in a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme. We handle registration and ensure the process is transparent, protecting both you and your tenant.

Managing Your Tenancy

What happens once your property is rented.

Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance?

We coordinate repairs on your behalf. As a landlord, you are responsible for structural repairs, heating, plumbing, and safety-related issues, while tenants are responsible for day-to-day upkeep and minor damage caused by misuse.

How often should I inspect my property?

Regular inspections help ensure the property is well maintained. Typically, we recommend periodic inspections every 3–6 months, depending on tenancy type and duration, while always giving tenants proper notice.

Can tenants make changes or decorate the property?

Tenants usually need landlord permission for significant changes. We encourage clear agreements on what is allowed and communicate approvals or restrictions efficiently to avoid misunderstandings.

Can I charge for utilities or include bills in the rent?

This depends on the tenancy agreement. Some landlords include bills to simplify the tenancy, while others charge tenants separately. We can advise on the most suitable approach for your property and tenants.

How do I manage multiple tenants or shared accommodation?

We help manage HMO (House in Multiple Occupation) or shared properties, ensuring legal compliance, proper tenancy agreements, and coordinated communication with all tenants.

Rent, Payments & Changes During Tenancy

Handling financial matters during a tenancy

Can I increase the rent during a tenancy?

Rent increases are possible, but they must comply with the tenancy agreement and legal requirements. We can advise on timing, notice periods, and how to ensure any increases are fair and reasonable.

What happens if tenants stop paying rent?

We act quickly to address missed payments, communicating with tenants and advising on the next steps. Where necessary, we can guide landlords through legal processes while attempting to resolve matters amicably.

Ending or Changing the Tenancy

Situations where the tenancy may change or come to an end.

Can I sell the property while it is rented?

Yes, your tenancy continues even if you sell. Tenants’ rights are protected, and we can help coordinate viewings and communication with the tenants to minimise disruption.

How do I legally evict a tenant if necessary?

Eviction must follow legal procedures and notice periods under tenancy law. We guide landlords through the process, ensuring it is handled professionally and legally, minimising potential disputes.

How do I handle tenant disputes or issues?

We act as mediators to resolve disputes quickly and professionally, whether it’s about repairs, rent, or neighbour complaints. Open communication and clear documentation are key to keeping issues manageable.

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