Self-protection for landlords

As a tenant, you naturally want to know that your deposit is held safely and securely but it’s also essential for landlords.

“It’s important to recognise that serving the correct paperwork on the tenant is just as important as protecting the deposit itself,” explains Lucy Caldwell of Henry Adams Lettings in Haywards Heath. “Without the paperwork in place, the landlord could be potentially liable for legal repercussions.”

Landlords who fail to serve the right documents to their tenants at the right time can be fined up to three times the value of the deposit and may not be able to regain possession of their property so it’s vital for all sides to get the paperwork in order.

“The landlord needs to have confidence that their agent will be doing all this on their behalf as part of the service. Within appropriate timescales the tenant should receive a copy of the certificate, the scheme details and prescribed information.” explained Lucy.  

“Our highly experienced staff are constantly keeping themselves up to date with changes in the lettings industry and with varying case law in recent months concerning deposit protection, landlords can be sure that we stay up-to-date and can make them aware of any changing responsibilities.”

Henry Adams Lettings is a member of one of the government’s schemes, the dispute service (TDS) and a member of SafeAgent, so clients can be assured they are fully bonded and insured, again giving clients reassurance.

“We take our professional standing and our client services very seriously.  Protecting deposits correctly is essential so anyone tempted to let their property themselves or who uses a cut price, low service, agent could well find themselves in trouble unless they know fully what they are doing,” said Lucy.  

“We pride ourselves on providing a high level of success in finding tenants and managing properties but we’re here to protect our landlords and to make sure tenants also get the right service.”

For more information contact Henry Adams Lettings on 01444 450528 or visit www.henryadams.co.uk.