How to Deal With Difficult Landlords
Continually soaring house prices have led to the rise of ‘generation rent’ throughout the last few years. Based on current trends, tenants privately renting are expected to make up 50.7% of the housing market by 2039 (Buy Association, 2019). Landlords are cashing in on this trend, but some of them are neglecting their responsibilities, and their tenants. No renter should have to put up with nightmare landlords, but, if you find yourself in a position where you feel like you are doing so, read this guide.
Brush up on your rights
It is very important to know your rights when you are renting. If you are clued up on what you are entitled to, this will help in the event that any disputes arise with your landlord. As a tenant you have a right to:
Live in a property that is safe and in a good state of repair.
Have your deposit protected by a government backed scheme.
Be protected from unfair eviction.
See an energy performance certificate.
If you want to know more about what you are entitled to, see GOV.UK
Document everything
From the moment you sign a contract, you should document everything. Take as many photos as you can when you move in and keep a record of all communications from your landlord. Also, keep everything you have signed in a safe place.
If you have any repair requests make note of these, and also make not of any repair work that was done or not done. You may need to have proof of this when it comes to the end of your tenancy, to ensure you get your deposit back.
Stay calm
We understand it can be infuriating to deal with a difficult landlord, but it is important to stay calm, as flying off the handle could impact your relationship even further. The best course of action is to remain as calm as you possibly can, ensure you keep fulfilling your end of the bargain in order to avoid arguments.
Ask for professional advice
If you think your landlord is breaking the law, or acting unfairly, then there are professional bodies you can turn to for help. You can consult Shelter, who are the top housing law charity in the UK, they have a number of online guides which you can consult for useful advice.