What Do Young Renters Need to Know in 2019?
There aren’t many things in life which are more important than where you choose to live. There are many factors to take into account.
One of the most important is the transport links, are there any buses, tubes, trains? This is especially noteworthy if you don’t drive or live in a city like London. Public transport moves the nation’s capital and there is an easy way to see your transport links. Head to a website called PTAL, Public Transport Accessibility Level, (www.tfl.gov.uk) and enter your address. The higher the number (between 1 and 6) given the more options there are for public transport.
Any “young renters” should be aware that even if they have signed the lease and moved in there will be flat inspections throughout the term of the lease. An advanced warning will arrive but it is both essential and time-saving not to leave yourself too much to do. So, don’t let things get out of hand.
There are a couple of pieces of legislation coming into force that will radically change the position of renters. It would be good to know what is likely to happen.
A “Tenant Fees Bill” has passed through both Houses and will become law in early summer 2019. But what does this mean for renters? Well, it will soon become law that tenancy deposits will be no more than 5 weeks rent. This will save tenants across England £240 million a year, about £70 per household.
Professional Landlords and Letting Agents such as this one can no longer ask for unreasonable costs for extra services. They will soon have to provide evidence like receipts for all work completed. That means no more bills of £60 for menial tasks like replacing a broken fire alarm. All this makes sense and can save you money.
These technical matters may seem like too much hard work. But another big change which will more than likely come into force in 2019 is to Section 21 Notices. At the moment, landlords can evict private renters without a reason and can give as little as 8 weeks’ notice. This is the Section 21 process and has been disastrous to some of the millions of private renters. Prime Minister Theresa May has called the practice unfair.
“Renters have the right to feel secure in their home, settled in their community and able to plan for the future with confidence,” she said.
A more obvious tip is to shop around. You may have already found the flat of your dreams but be sure to check prices in the local area. It could turn out that a landlord is charging more than they should because of how much you like the property. Do your online research first, take advice from friends and family and make sure that you don’t jump in.
