21
Jul
Landlords urged to check backgrounds of tenants
The National Landlords Association (NLA) has urged its members to
carry out thorough checks on prospective tenants, or risk rental
arrears.
It notes that failure to pay rent can take up to six months to
resolve, during which time landlords can lose around
£6,000.
The organisation now offers a Tenant Check scheme, which allows
landlords to confirm that a prospective tenant is in employment, is
likely to be able to keep up rent payments and is who they say they
are.
Information about past financial history such an bankruptcy can be
provided quickly, while more detailed checks such as confirmation
of employment takes three days.
Chairman of the NLA David Salusbury commented: "NLA Tenant Check is
a simple and affordable tool which allows landlords to reduce the
risk of possible future problems with rent arrears and gives them
the opportunity to paint a clearer picture of their prospective
tenants."
Yesterday, the NLA warned landlords that they could face hefty
fines if they fail to provide tenants with energy performance
certificates for their rental property.
