Lettings and Property Management Agent Based in Canterbury Providing Advice for Landlords, Tenants and Students. 01227 765008 Enquiries@iconnltd.co.uk
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All posts from iConn Property Management
Top Tips for Landlords from www.Propertyads.co.uk
May 3rd
Vicky Cranthorne, Office Manager from iConn Property Management writes:
Our friends from Propertyads have provided us with their top tips for Landlords – Hope you find them useful.
Top tips for landlords considering buy-to-let properties
Buy-to-let properties can be an excellent way to supplement your income or your pension, and a little research and a bit of clever property market know-how can help you make the most out of your buy-to-let property. So if you’re considering adding a little extra to your pocket each month, here are our top tips for potential landlords looking at getting into buy-to-let properties.
1. Investigate the best area for good investment Before you buy a property, you have to think about what kind of tenant you want, and where you want to buy. Your rental property doesn’t even need to be in the same city! For example, buy-to-let properties in Sheffield and Canterbury, student cities, are a great investment. Each year new students arrive to study, and each year they need additional accommodation. Investing in a student area is an excellent idea when you’re looking for almost-guaranteed income. Much like student rental properties, investing in a business-oriented city near a financial district such as Canary Wharf in London will be a costly venture, but will also help you to secure a tenant relatively easily.
2. Decorate for demand to cater to your tenants Decorate and furnish your home according to your ideal tenant’s requirements. If you’ve bought a buy-to-let property in Canterbury, for example, make sure that each bedroom is furnished with a bed and a desk to allow multiple students to rent out the rooms. A large living room and plenty of storage space in the kitchen are also preferential, so make sure you don’t clutter it up with unnecessary décor.
3. Plan for empty flats As a landlord with a buy-to-let property, it’s important that you make financial provision for empty flats. If you’re unable to find a tenant you will still need to make mortgage repayments. Make sure you have access to funds if you need to do this. Another option would be to sign with a rental agency that guarantees rentals for your flats so that you’re always covered, or take out an insurance policy that insures you against non-payment of rent during a rental agreement.
4. Write in increases to your tenancy agreements and set up a direct debit Make sure that you write in annual increase agreements in your tenancy contracts to make the most out of your rental property. Setting up a direct debit agreement will guarantee the rental income on a particular day (instead of collecting funds on different days each month when the tenant remembers to pay)
5. Protect your property with insurance Landlord’s insurance can help you protect yourself against unpaid rental, theft by tenants, or damage to a property due to tenant negligence or weather damage. A good insurance policy is a good investment when you’re in the landlord market to make money out of your buy-to-let property – especially if it is situated in a different city to your own residence
If you are looking to grow your portfolio or first time invest into the property market in the Canterbury area please contact us for free independent advice.
Tenancy Agreement for 2012 Student Tenancies
Mar 26th
Vicky Cranthorne M.A.R.L.A, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
All student tenants for July 2012 to June 2013 can view a copy of the tenancy agreement which will be used for their tenancy by following the link below:
http://www.iconnproperties.co.uk/student_information.php
Access Codes are provided on tenants emails sent 26.03.12 but if you need them again please call our office.
Budget Announcement 2012 – How it Applies to Landlords & Tenants (Canterbury Letting Agent)
Mar 23rd
Iris O’Connell, Managing Director for iConn Property Management writes:
ARLA has recently created this great article to help explain what this years budget announcements will mean to us; definately worth a read: ARLA Budget News
TDS Changes of Legislation – Timescale for Registering Deposits. (Canterbury Letting Agent)
Mar 20th
Sam Douglas, Accounts Co-Ordinator for iConn Property Management writes:
The Localism Act comes into force on April 6th 2012 and makes an important change to the timescale for protecting deposits.
The timescale for registering deposits and serving Prescribed Information has increased from 14 to 30 days – but the 30 days is an absolute deadline.
Our prescribed information will be updated in our current tenancy agreements and terms of business and this change will only really affect tenancies created after the 6th April but current clients may wish to take note of these changes for any future tenancies.
Changes to EPC Legislation (Letting in Canterbury)
Mar 16th
Vicky Cranthorne, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
EPC legislation changes - April 2012
The DCLG (Department for Communities and Local Government) have proposed changes to the legislation regarding energy performance certificates (EPC’s) for properties are due to come into force on 6th April 2012. This is the legislation that was originally due to be implemented last October but was subsequently delayed and revised.
In simple terms it will mean that instead of just advertising the graph images on the property advert we will need to include the first two pages instead. It will mean that we must hold the full certificate on file for the property and not just the numbers on the graph. It is also mentioned that the EPC graphs must now cover any outbuildings included in the tenancy and not just the main property.
Key points in the new legislation:
- This only applies to properties coming to market after 6th April.
- The current asset ratings (EPC graphs) are no longer applicable in isolation. They are to be replaced by the first page of the new style EPC (typically an A4 document which contains the graphs and additional information).
- The EPC legislation is extended to apply to non-residential and rental transactions.
- Where property marketing does not include the full property address the legislation does allow for the address to be redacted in the EPC used for marketing purposes. It is still required on the full EPC document. NB. Although this is clearly indicated in the legislation, there is currently debate as to whether this only applies to commercial properties.
- Note: At this time of writing the format of the revised EPC is still subject to approval and release by DCLG.
- Further to this, we have gained confirmation that:
- The EPC does not have to be an integral part of the printed particulars. It can be provided as an attachment or insert.
- If sending details electronically as an attachment, the EPC can be provided via a clickable url.
For the majority of clients this is not a major issue they will need to be concerned with and more impacts the way the agent advertises but we will advise all clients who the legislation effects.
Common Questions from Tenants (Canterbury Lettings)
Mar 14th
Sam Macdonald, Lettings Negotiator for iConn Property Management writes:
ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents) supplies lots of answers to common questions which tenants might need to know.
This link takes tenants direct to their website: https://www.arla.co.uk/information/tenants/rights-of-access/
Here is one of the questions I spotted earlier which I thought would be useful to know:
What About Rights Of Access To The Property, What Are The Rules?
A landlord, or his agent, or someone authorised to act on his behalf has a right to view the property to assess its condition and to carry out necessary repairs or maintenance at reasonable times of the day. The law says that a landlord or agent must give a tenant at least 24 hours prior notice in writing (except in an emergency) of such a visit. Naturally, if the tenant agrees, on specific or odd occasions to allow access without the 24 hours prior written notice, that is acceptable. [A clause in the tenancy agreement which tries to diminish or over-ride a tenant's rights in this respect would be void and unenforceable.]
Reminder for Student Tenants for July 2012 (Canterbury Letting Agent)
Mar 7th
Your guarantors should have received their documents by now.
The guarantor documents need to be signed and returned to our office by the 1st April 2012.
*Applicants those guarantors are based abroad – the forms have been emailed to your guarantor – please ensure they have received them ok and if not please call our office to update their details if a new email address is required.
They are very important as your tenancy can not proceed without a signed agreement in place; please speak with your guarantors to check they have received the documents safely and to remind them of the deadline date. (If your guarantor has already returned their agreement please ignore this message but you may want to check with your other housemates to make sure all theirs are back also)
Once all agreements are received for your tenancy we will issue your pre-start pack. This will invite you to come into the office to sign and complete your new tenancy.
Without all guarantor agreements being received we are unable to proceed to this point.
If you have any problems or questions in the meantime then please contact me either on the office number.
Last 15 Student Properties for July 2011 – June 2012 (Canterbury Lettings)
Feb 24th
Vicky Cranthorne M.A.R.L.A, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
It’s been a busy few weeks in the office and the rush for student properties in Canterbury has increased; We are now down to the last 15 student properties available. The smaller sized properties seem to have been the most popular this year; we have 1 one bedroom property left which is a spacious one bed cottage in a central location in Canterbury – ideal for single occupation or for a couple. We also have only 1 5 bed property left which is based close to Christchurch university – the landlord includes broadband in the rental which is a great benefit for the tenants. The interior is modern and the kitchen includes a dishwasher and a tumbledryer as well as the usual white goods.
For those who are still looking to secure their accomodation in Canterbury for next year I have listed the available properties below: (as of 24.02.12) You can also visit this following link to see the most up to date list http://www.iconnproperties.co.uk/search.php?town_postcode=&searchtype=student&search.x=16&search.y=11.
Advice on Electrical Safety Certificates for Rented Properties (HMO) – (Canterbury Letting Agent)
Feb 16th
Iris O’Connell M.A.R.L.A, Managing Director for iConn Property Management, Canterbury writes:
Domestic electrical condition report & fire alarm certificate for domestic dwellings BS5839 PART 6.
Under health and safety requirements; it is obligatory that all Houses of Multiple Occupation are required to have the electrical installation checked at least every three years (depending on the condition and age of the electrical installation, some properties may need more frequent inspections) The Domestic Condition report will include lighting provision and its condition, socket-outlet provision and its condition, automatic fire detection and its condition and electrical hazards for fixed wiring. Please note the element including the Fire Alarm certificate is only valid for one year.
It is only inevitable that overtime and with the wear and tear of regular use, electrical installations will start to deteriorate. Connections can work loose (a potential fire hazard) sockets can be over loaded and general maintenance or building work can damage and effect wiring.
You may find that after having the electrical system in your property inspected that some remedial works may be necessary to bring the system up to date which will be charged separately to the report fee.
The cost of the condition report which includes the fire alarm certificate will be between £140.00 to £225.00 Inc vat; the actual price is determined on the day by the size of the property and the number of rooms.
For further information or advice on Landlords requirements for Letting a property then please call us on 01227 782040. You can also visit our website which includes a section for Landlords advice and FAQs: http://www.iconnproperties.co.uk/landlord_information.php
Water Saving Tips as Drought Warning is Issued (Canterbury Lettings)
Feb 3rd
Sam Macdonald, Lettings Negotiator for iConn Property Management, Canterbury writes:
Drought warning
According to the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) Kent is suffering a drought.
For the last two winters the south east has seen lower than average rainfall, which means that water stocks in rivers, reservoirs and aquifers are at severely low levels.
Caroline Spelman, Environment Secretary said: “It is not just the responsibility of Government, water companies and businesses to act against drought. We are asking for the help of everyone by urging them to use less water and to start now.”
Water saving tips; before during and after a drought
- Before a drought arrives, it’s useful to get into good habits, such as using a bowl of water to peel and wash fruit and vegetables instead of a running tap, and reusing grey water to water the garden.
- Putting a ‘Hippo’ water-saving device or brick in your cistern also helps. Placing water butts under downpipes and considering many other ways of saving rainwater can drastically reduce consumption in the garden and help ensure you can keep watering even during a hosepipe ban.
- During a drought, saving water is even more important. The Environment Agency has lots of advice about saving water when the need arises. Simply turning the tap off when you brush your teeth can save up to five litres a minute! Don’t use any clean water for non-essential purposes like cleaning windows, for example. Hosepipe and sprinkler bans are only used when there’s a real need. Always follow the water company’s advice.
- After a drought, as the environment recovers, it is still important to continue to use water in a sensible fashion. Water conservation is good for the environment and for society at all times.
Student Lettings from iConn in Canterbury – Houses to Rent
Jan 30th
Sam MacDonald, Lettings Negotiator for iConn Property Management writes:
We are right in the middle of our initial student property rush and properties are coming off the market at a record rate!!
The most popular properties seem to be the three bed houses and at the time of writing we only have two left!
If you are still looking for your ideal property then please call us on 01227 782040 or visit the website to see the available properties.
Click on the image below to see the available properties:
Warning to landlords Letting in Canterbury
Jan 24th
Vicky Cranthorne M.A.R.L.A, Office Manager for iConn Property Management, Canterbury writes:
Landlords considering using a letting agent to manage their portfolio or to help them secure tenants should consider the agents qualifications and memberships with regulating bodies before instruction.
It is obviously important to choose an agent that offers you the service you are looking for within the budget you have, and to look into recommendations and testimonials but most importantly ensure that the agent is regulated as this will protect you and your monies.
If an agent is not regulated then there is a very high risk of money paid by your tenants in rental amounts or as deposits are unprotected. In the worst scenario this could mean the landlord picking up the bill if the agent or company hits any financial difficulties or decides to close.
iConn is a ARLA regulated agent, we are also members of the Property Ombudsman Lettings. Our client monies are held within a separate account and all our accounting practices are audited to ensure transparency and protection for our clients.
If you would like to discuss this in more detail please contact our office on 01227 765008; feel free to pop into our office for an informal chat if you wish at 26s Castle Street, Canterbury, CT1 2PU.
Maintenance Tips and Advice for Tenants
Jan 18th
Sam Douglas, for iConn Property Management writes:
These tips listed in our welcome packs may come in useful for some of our tenants:
Washing Machines
Please clean your filter regularly on your washing machine, normally located on the front at the bottom of the machine. This is often the cause for the washing machine to stop working or stop draining properly. Also ensure you do not over fill the powder drawer.
Dryer
Please clean the filter regularly as failure to do so is likely to cause the tumble dryer to overheat and stop working.
If any other electrical appliances fail to function correctly, please call the office and we will organise for the appliance to be repaired, replaced or removed.
Light Bulbs and Shades
It is the responsibility of the tenants to replace light bulbs when they have blown and to replace any damaged shades when they leave.
Pictures and posters.
We appreciate that tenants may wish to put pictures and posters up, however please be aware that using substances like blu tac may cause damage to the wall covering or paint work. You are responsible for any repairs required when you leave.
Windows and Curtains
Please ensure that all windows are closed when the property is unattended. You can be sure that insurance companies will not pay out if windows are left open and you have been broken into when you have left the property unsecure.
Heat sensors and smoke detectors.
They are not to be removed, disconnected or the batteries taken out. If the batteries fail, you are responsible for replacing them. Please note that disconnecting or removing the batteries long term will invalidate any insurance taken out by yourselves or the landlord.
Pest Control
Any issue with infestation i.e. wasp nests, bees nest, mice etc are the responsibility of the tenant. The issue should be reported directly to the environmental department at Canterbury City Council. Please do not encourage any unwanted pets by leaving rubbish inside or outside the property long term. It can be costly for a contractor to be called out to sort such issues and on top of that, there are obvious health implications to consider. You will be charged if we have to send out a contractor.
Guttering & Drains
All guttering and drain maintenance for the property is again the responsibility of the tenants as laid out in the tenancy agreement.
Drains block very easily, most common causes are food and oil being put down the kitchen sink and hair from showers and baths. Last year we had numerous reports of blocked drains; all reports were caused by tenants and in all cases the tenants had to pay the bill as they were responsible for causing the problem.
Smoking.
Tenants are reminded that there is to be NO SMOKING inside of the property
Property Inspections
If iConn manages the property, your Landlord has instructed us to carry out periodic property inspections. The inspections are to ensure that the property is being looked after by yourself and for any maintenance repairs that may be required as part of your Landlord’s obligations. We will write to you in advance notifying you of any inspections that may be due, giving you the opportunity to be present whilst the inspection is being carried.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Linked in or Youtube
Jan 15th
Iris O’Connell, Managing Director for iConn Property Management Canterbury writes:
Join the growing iConn Property Management group on Facebook, follow us on Twitter or Link in to the team for the latest information on legislation, new properties on the market, offers and competitions and advice for all:
STUDENTS APPLYING FOR TENANCIES WITH ICONN FOR JULY 2012- JUNE 2013 HAVE THE CHANCE TO WIN A FREE ADMINISTRATION FEE BY JOINING THE FACEBOOK PAGE.
Approved Contractors – Contact details
Jan 10th
Sam Douglas, for iConn Property Management writes:
We often receive calls from Landlords and tenants asking for local contractors to help them out with maintenance at their properties. I thought it may be useful to create a page of our approved contractors in case you ever needed to call on them.
Please see the relevant contractors’ link to find out further information about their company and the services they provide.
http://www.iconnproperties.co.uk/approved_contractors.php
Why you should choose an ARLA Regulated Agent
Dec 29th
Vicky Cranthorne M.A.R.L.A, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
An Agent regulated by ARLA ensures a Landlord or tenant that they are choosing an agent that has to follow strict guidelines and work within stringent industry standards. An ARLA agent has to offer professionalism and commitment to all its clients and customers at all times.
ARLA members are required to work within a robust Code of Practice, which entails covering the key stages in all letting and property management. There are comprehensive membership Byelaws which include compliance with handling and accounting for Clients’ money; the mandatory ARLA Client Money Protection Bonding Scheme; Professional Indemnity Insurance; Dealing with Complaints and Disciplinary Procedures.
ARLA members are kept up to date with all new and changing legislation and require all offices to have at least one member of staff fully trained to ARLA standard.
Advice for Tenants When Completing Viewings
Dec 28th
Sam Macdonald, Lettings Negotiator for iConn Property Management writes:
As the student market has begun again, those who are looking to move or are venturing off campus for the first time may find this advise useful:
LOCATION Research the local area thoroughly. Consider local public transport, good local amenities, good schools and Universities, easy access to motorways, good doctors, dentist, bars and restaurants and most importantly good neighbours.
CONDITION OF THE PROPERTY When viewing take a check list with you and make sure you know what you are looking for and what requirements are. Look for a property that has been well maintained. Check the windows, decoration, condition of white goods, heating system and types of shower. Don’t forget to check the outside and the condition of the guttering and garden.
RENT LEVEL Make sure that you research the local rent levels for the type of property you are looking for. There are many ways to make comparables with other properties. Try looking at main property portals like Right Move or Property Live to compare other properties currently on the market and the level of rent they are being advertised for.
LETTING AGENT If you decide to rent through an agent rather than a private Landlord, make sure the Agent is a member of ARLA, has a good reputation, charges fair administration fees and has the facility to protect your deposit.
Have Yourself a Very Green Christmas!! :)
Dec 24th
Vicky Cranthorne M.A.R.L.A, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
The local council have released some useful information for recycling over the Christmas period so that we all have a green Christmas……
Green Christmas
This year, like every other, we want to make sure that you not only have a great Christmas, but get rid of your Christmas waste on the appropriate day in the appropriate way. So please take note of the following points:
Check your calendar for your collection dates - some of them may have changed
In bad weather conditions put your waste out on your usual day and leave it. We will collect it soon as we can.
Garden Waste won’t be collected between 23 December 2011 and 09 January 2012
Don’t forget we will collect your real Christmas tree for free – if you leave it out for collection on recycling day. Place it next to your clear sacks not in the garden waste bin.
Old trees can be taken to the Household Waste Recycling Centres and placed in the green garden waste containers for composting. Your local council may also be able to take your real Christmas tree for composting if they provide a kerbside green garden waste collection service.
Alternatively, why not buy a Christmas tree in a pot or with a root that can be planted in the garden for use the following year! Some companies now also hire real Christmas trees which are re-planted after Christmas!
Recycle your Christmas cards and non foil wrapping paper in the clear recycling sack, or look out for one of the high street charity schemes.
Flatten and secure your cardboard boxes for collection. These can be put out for collection next to your recycling sacks.
To clear space give unwanted clothes and toys to charity shops and clothing banks.
Recycle your glass bottles at the bottle banks and the Household Waste Recycling Centres
Think about what you buy and who you are buying for. We all like to put on the best Christmas Day spread for family and friends, but afterwards, without a bit of pre plannng, we can still be eating the brussel sprouts four days later!!
Make use of any left over food, visit http://www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/ for recipes and ideas.
Although our contractor can sort most plastics, many of them have a negative value and black plastic cannot be sorted at all, so please only give us your clear or opaque plastic bottles over the christmas period.
Remember you can take your unwanted plastic bags back to a major supermarket for recycling, they all now provide in-store banks.
If you are not sure about collections over the Christmas period, then please call Serco on 0800 031 9091.
Here’s hoping you have a very happy Christmas.
Advice on Condensation Problems
Dec 23rd
Sam Douglas, Accounts Co-ordinator for iConn Property Management writes:
Double glazing and improved insulation means we have warmer houses, but unless a property is adequately ventilated, it can become damp. We ask all tenants to ensure that our properties are sufficiently ventilated by taking a few simple precautions stated below in order to avoid condensation and the build-up of damp.
BEDROOMS Open bedroom windows when you go to bed at night; a 10mm gap will do. If it really is too cold to do this, wipe the condensation off the windows first thing in the morning, but please do not put the cloth you used on the radiator to dry as this will create more condensation.
SHOWER/BATHROOM Ensure full use of extractor or ventilation fans. Where these are not provided, open a window after bathing or showering to give the steam and damp air a chance to escape. Wipe windows, walls and mirrors to remove condensation (a microfiber cloth is the most efficient means of doing this), and dry the shower tray or bath. Keep the door closed while the bathroom is in use to prevent the steam escaping to other parts of the house.
KITCHEN When cooking, cover pans. Use exactor or ventilation fans where provided. If you do not have an automatic kettle, take care to ensure it is not left boiling. These precautions will help to reduce steam and therefore moisture in the air. Keep the door closed while the kitchen is in use to prevent the steam escaping to other parts of the house.
LIVING AREAS Where there are chimneys, do not block them up. If a wall appears to be damp, do not put furniture right up against it; allow some circulation of air.
GENERAL Make sure that any ventilation bricks or openings in the building are not obstructed.
WINDOWS Keep glass as clear of condensation as you can. Wipe away any moisture that has formed using a soft cloth. Leave open any ”trickle” vents in double glazed units. Get into the habit of opening windows to keep moisture content in the air down and to air the property when you can.
LAUNDRY Avoid drying clothes on radiators. Tumble dryers should be vented to the outside, unless fitted with a condenser.
HEATING Provide a reasonable level of heating (no less than 10°C in an unused area, or 16C if in use); cold rooms are susceptible to condensation. Remember, the best way to heat a room and avoid condensation is to maintain a low level of warmth throughout the day rather than to turn the heating off while you are out and put it on at a high level when you return home.
PORTABLE HEATERS Portable gas and paraffin heaters can create a significant amount of damp and condensation within properties. Please do not use these types of heaters unless you have permission from your landlord or property manager.
REMEDIES Mildew may be removed from clothes by using a dry cleaning process. Remove and kill mould by wiping the affected area(s) with a fungicide which carries a Health and Safety Executive approval number, precisely following the manufactures instructions. Alternatively a mild bleach solution will have the desired effect, but do test on a small area first. Do not disturb mould by vacuuming or brushing as this can give rise to respiratory complaints.
STUDENT LETTINGS LIST FOR 2012-2013 RELEASED by iConn Property Management
Dec 1st
And so it begins….. We have released our available properties for next years academic term. For your ideal student property in Canterbury Don’t Delay and Take a Look Today!!!
Viewings are available and demand is expected to be high this year, so don’t miss out on the ideal property in the best location and book today!!
Full details and more photos are available on our website: http://www.iconnproperties.co.uk/search.php?town_postcode=&searchtype=student&search.x=16&search.y=11
You will also find all the student terms and documents on this page: http://www.iconnproperties.co.uk/student_information.php
Good Luck! 
Advice for Potential Landlords looking to invest in property…
Nov 16th
Vicky Cranthorne, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
ARLA (Association of Residential Letting Agents) provides this useful article for potential Landlords looking to invest in property…
http://www.arla.co.uk/buy-to-let/dos-and-donts/
- DO
- Think of buying to let as a medium to long term investment.
- DO
- Seek advice from an ARLA letting agent on local market demands.
- DO
- Get your sums right. Will the rent cover borrowings and costs, after allowing for void periods?
- DO
- Decorate, fit out and furnish to high quality standards, especially kitchens and bathrooms, to attract the best tenants and let quickly every time.
- DO
- Use an ARLA member as your letting agent. They are bonded, hold Professional Indemnity Insurance to required standards, have staff trained to ARLA’s competency standards and are kept up to date with the latest legal and regulatory requirements.
- DON’T
- Let personal taste cloud your judgement. Be sure the property you choose meets market requirements.
- DON’T
- Purchase anything with potential maintenance problems like a lot of woodwork or large gardens. It will add nothing to the rental value and cost a lot to keep up.
- DON’T
- Think that the running of an investment property to let can be left to friends or relatives in your absence. Tenants require a full management service.
- DON’T
- Use off-the-shelf tenancy agreements from HMSO or law stationers, or forget to issue the right notices or fail to have a proper inventory and condition report made before a tenant moves in. Leave all documentation to a professional agent.
- DON’T
- Furnish with second hand furniture or cast-off soft furnishings. These will probably contravene the Furniture and Furnishing Regulations.
Tenancy Deposit Service
Nov 11th
Vicky Cranthorne M.A.R.L.A, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
Most landlords and tenants are aware of the change in legislation in April 2007 which requires landlords to hold their tenants deposits within a secured scheme. At iConn we use the Tenancy Deposit Scheme – (TDS).
Our tenants and landlords may find this website useful as it provides the guidelines and processes involved when using the TDS.
http://www.thedisputeservice.co.uk/landlords-faqs.html - For landlords
http://www.thedisputeservice.co.uk/tenants-faqs.html - For Tenants.
Digital Switchover and Television Aerial Updates – Landlords Responsibility
Nov 10th
Sam Douglas, Accounts Co-Ordinator for iConn Property Management writes:
With all the promotion recently, most people are aware in some way or another about the Digital Switchover; the plan is that all Analogue transmitters will be switched off and Analogue Aerials will be phased out and replaced with the new digital transmission.
The switchover date for South and East Kent has recently been announced as 13th June 2012 – when the BBC 2 Analogue will be switched off followed by all analogue channels being turned off completely on the 27th June 2012.
As a Landlord you will be responsible for the television aerial on the roof of your property being upgraded from analogue to digital, if you have not already done so.
We would strongly suggest that you complete this upgrade sooner rather than later as I am sure that the closer to the digital switchover we get, the more expensive the upgrade will be!
On average costings are coming in anything from £65.00 to £200.00 depending on upgrade works required.
I have spoken with Alexandra Aerials and CHP Electrical and Maintenance and both companies pricing are about the same. They have both said that if only the aerial needs replacing its £50.00 for the aerial plus labour (normally an hours work) but if the wiring also needs to be updated too, then you will be looking at between £150.00 – £200.00. They would then replace the aerial and all cable and then rewire this into the property.
Please contact me on 01227 765008 if you would like me to arrange this upgrade for your property or alternatively to set up a payment plan for the next few months to cover this expense next year.
You may wish to source your own quotes or complete the work yourself so please let me know if you need access to your properties at any point.
Tenancy Notice Periods in your AST Tenancy Agreement
Nov 9th
Sam Macdonald, Lettings Negotiator for iConn Property Management writes:
Tenants and Landlords often get confused by the notice clause in their A.S.T (Assured Shorthold Tenancy) Tenancy Agreements when it comes to needing to give notice.
Commonly the confusion comes when deciding how much notice should be given and how to give notice.
Here are the basics:
If your tenancy is in a fixed term contract:
This means that your contract is still within its initial fixed period, dated on the contract ie. 1st January 2011 – 31st December 2012. Whilst within a fixed term you are unable to give notice. Instead you will need to wait until the contract expires. The Agent or Landlord must serve a Section 21 noticeto end the contract, otherwise the contract will roll over and then both parties will be subject to the Statutory Periodic notice terms (See below). The notice must be served two months before the end of the tenancyand in most cases they are accompanied will an offer to renew the contract if possession is not required from the landlord.
If it is the tenants intention to leave they need to confirm this to the agent or landlord when they receive the section 21 notice.
This also applies to tenancy agreements which have been renewed using a fixed term addendum as a new fixed contract has been agreed to be extended by certain dates and so the landlord and tenant are liable for the term again, until it expires.
If your tenancy is Statutory Periodic:
This is when your fixed term has expired and you are now on a rolling contract.
In this case you are able to provide notice and the standard notice lengths are one month notice from the tenant to vacate the property or two months notice from the landlord for possession of the property. The notice from the tenant must be provided in writing to either the agent or landlord. The notice from the landlord must also be in writing and should be accompanied with a section 21(4)(a) notice. The notice from both parties must be in line with the rental date. So, for example, if you pay your rent on the 5th of the month your notice will be in force from the 5th of the month, even if you provide a written letter before this date it will not come into effect until you pay your last months rent.
Full and further information regarding to notice periods under the Housing Act 1988 are available from this website: http://www.legislation.gov.uk/ukpga/1988/50/contents
Boiler Flues – Changes to Safety Checks
Nov 8th
Vicky Cranthorne M.A.R.L.A, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
There is a major change to the gas safety certificate requirements which will be coming into effect from 31st December 2012 which some landlords will need to be aware of.
If the boiler in your property is situated on an outside wall and you can see the flue then you will not be effected BUT if your boiler flue is concealed and runs behind walls or ceilings before reaching an outside wall then this change will effect you.
Gas Safe Engineers need to be able to inspect the flue all the way along to ensure that there is no carbon monoxide (CO) danger and in order to be able to complete a gas safety certification. If they can not see the whole flue they will need to install inspection hatches.
Landlords will need to prepare for this added required expense and so we will be writing to our current clients whose properties will be effected to offer a payment plan and advice on contacting development managing agents if the proprety is in an apartment block.
The legislation comes into effect on the 31st December 2012 which will means that any certifications due after the 31st December 2011 will need to be brought up to the new requirements so that they are not invalidated when the changes are enforced.
This websites confirms the changes in more detail: http://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/advice/flues_in_ceiling_spaces.aspx
and further information can be found on the HSE website : http://www.hse.gov.uk/safetybulletins/fluesinvoids.htm
Winter Warmers For Your Property
Nov 7th
Vicky Cranthorne M.A.R.L.A, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
The Autumn season is my favorite time of year and as we head closer to Christmas and rumours of bad weather keep surfacing its time to prepare for the frost!
Always keep your heating or hot water on froststat or on low to avoid the pipes bursting in really cold weather.
Nows the time to clear all your guttering and drains of the leaves and debris which has collected through the year so they are in the best shape they can be for the rain fall.
Set timers on your heating controls so you can be more energy efficient and careful with your bills.
Get out your winter duvet or add an extra blanket to your bed to keep heating costs down and add linings on curtains or thicker fabric to keep the draughts out.
Stock up on some long life milk and other essentials so that if the snow falls you dont have to venture out!
Student Properties and Student Rentals in Canterbury 2012
Nov 4th
Vicky Cranthorne M.A.R.L.A, Office Manager for iConn Property Management writes:
It seems like only yesterday that the new student tenants picked up their keys and moved in but already were preparing our list for marketing for the next academic year!
Our student lettings list, for houses available from July 2012-June 2013 in Canterbury, will be released on the 1st December 2011 with viewings available from this date.
The early bird catches the worm and this was certainly true of last year with 96% of our student houses secured before the end of February. Great news for our current landlords and great news for the student tenants! The demand for student houses was, as usual, over subscribed and tenants were pleased to be able to secure a property earlier on in the year and not have to worry.
If you are thinking of investing into the student market in Canterbury or have a property which you would like to find suitable tenants for then please contact us. We are happy to provide advice on all aspects of the lettings process. Also, Landlords that sign up to iConns management services this month will receive our special offer, with reductions of up to 2.5%!
Student Properties and Student Rentals for 2012 – Renewing Tenancies
Nov 4th
Sam Macdonald, Lettings Negotiator for iConn Property Management writes:
For our current tenants, I’m afraid it’s already time to decide on your accommodation requirements for the next academic year.
We need to know whether or not you will be renewing your current tenancy for the forthcoming academic year 2012/2013, or if you intend to leave at the end of your current tenancy in June 2012. Please complete the enclosed form and return it to us at the above address no later than Friday 25th November 2011.
There was a substantial shortage of student accommodation this year due to the universities over subscribing and not being able to provide the amount of accommodation on campus as planned. Based on this expected demand for next year please consider your position wisely when deciding to either stay in your current property or vacate and look for alternative accommodation.
After all, why go through the upheaval of re applying and moving to a new property when you can just reapply and stay in your current property, you also have the added benefits of receiving a 50% discount off your administration fees and not having to find the funds for a new deposit.
Please find below your options:
OPTION ONE: You renew your current tenancy and stay in the same property.
By doing this you will benefit from the following: (This also applies to any tenant who will be staying on in the same property and finding new housemate(s) to share with. Please note any new housemate will pay the full administration fee)
*Half price administration fees (£50.00)
*No need to pay a new deposit.
*A Free Gift from iConn when you collect your keys for the new academic year.
*A Welcome box delivered to your property.
*Plus you will be entered into the Renewal Raffle with a chance to win:
**A 6 month subscription to Blockbuster worth £25.00.
**A Dominos Pizza Voucher worth £20.00.
**A Food Hamper worth £15.00.
OPTION TWO: You do not renew your tenancy for your current property but instead rent
One of our other student properties. By doing this you will benefit from the following:
*Half price administration fees (£50.00)
*A Welcome box delivered to your property.
Please be aware that you will have to pay a £400.00 deposit to secure a new property.
OPTION THREE: You do not renew your current tenancy and you do not rent another property through iConn Property Management.
We will be sad to see you go BUT we do not charge for future referencing of our tenants, so that is one benefit for you.
Some further points for consideration:
If we have not received your confirmation by November 25th, it will be assumed that you are not re-applying for a 2012/13 tenancy and your property will be included on our student property list as available for viewings for the next academic year.
If you do decide not to renew your tenancy, we will not be able to offer you the ability to stay on if you are unsuccessful in finding alternative accommodation due to the high demand and low supply of properties for next year. We are expecting to let all our student properties without delay from the start of our marketing period in December 2011.
If your property joins our availability list, your current tenancy agreement stipulates that viewings can and will be conducted by iConn after giving you 24 hours notice in writing or by telephone. Please advise us with reliable contact numbers to reach you on. Please note leaving you a voice mail message is deemed to be adequate notice. Please ensure that we have access to all rooms, including all bedrooms and that the property is kept in a clean and tidy order.
If you decide to stay in your current property please be aware that there will be an annual rental increase for the next tenancy term, the average being around £8.00 per person per month. The amount will be confirmed in the new year.