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A GUIDE TO TAKING ON ‘ROGUE’ LANDLORDS

Deposit Problems

We have all heard tales of crooked landlords taking deposits and refusing refunds, leaving students feeling ripped off.

Fortunately, the government has introduced new legislation to ensure this no longer happens. It binds your landlord to a tenancy deposit protection scheme, meaning that they must refund your deposit within ten days of departure. Alternatively you can use the deposit resolution service at www.tenancydeposit.gov.uk, a quick and simple process that should hopefully reduce the number of students complaining about dodgy deposit returns.

Overcharging

Make sure you take an inventory or checklist when you first move into the property and take accurate readings of all utilities if you are paying the bills. Take photos if you’re worried as it could save you time and money later if you have to deal with a troublesome landlord. As they say, a ‘picture is worth a thousand words’.

Safety Regulations

Contact your local Environmental Health Office for more information about the fire safety regulations; all houses with multiple occupants should be fitted with a fire alarm and the furniture must also adhere to certain laws. The landlord is responsible for making sure gas appliances and pipes are maintained in good order and checked for safety every twelve months. All these details should be available to you on request.

And Finally…

Finally, don’t give your landlord any opportunity to invent extra charges against you; clean thoroughly before you leave and accompany them on the inspection so that you can dispute charges at the time.

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