Q/ I have heard that Government is changing the law relating to tenancies what are the major issues?
A/ A recent announcement means that occupants of boarding houses and retirement villages will have the right to use the Tenancy Tribunal to resolve disputes.

A/ Real estate agents will no longer be able to charge tenants a letting fee.

A/ Landlords who fail to keep the property complying with health and safety requirements can be liable to pay tenants exemplary damages.

A/ Tenants who harass neighbours, unlawfully sublet the premises, or overpopulate the premises can be made to pay the landlord exemplary damages.

A/ Tenants will have to pay for the cost of water consumed at the premises.

A/ Landlords are going to have to arrange and pay for insurance for their tenants.

A/ Claims against bonds must be made within two months or claims must be referred to the Tenancy Tribunal.

Selling the Property.

Q/ /I have heard that if I decide to sell the property I have told the tenant straight away?
A Yes that’s correct the landlord has to advise the tenant in writing.

Q/ If I sell a property that is subject to a fixed term tenancy does it break the fixed term?
A/ No the tenancy continues with just a change to the name of the landlord.

Q/ I have heard that landlord insurance policies differ widely in their coverage is that true?
A/ Yes it is true and landlords should actually check that the cover they have meets their needs. There is no point finding out after the event that the cover is inadequate. Landlords should check out Landlord Pro Plus it’s excellent.