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The Department for Levelling Up, Housing & Communities has recently updated the "How to Rent: The Checklist for Renting in England" guide on 24 March 2023. This guide is an essential resource for landlords and tenants, providing information on the rights, responsibilities, and regulations regarding renting a property in England.
The Government published How to Rent guide must be given to assured shorthold tenants in England.
The latest version of the guide introduces several changes and additions that landlords and tenants should be aware of. This article will discuss these changes and their implications in detail. In addition, we will consider when this new How to Rent guide must be given.
It is advised that existing tenants are given a copy of the revised How to Rent guide PDF wherever possible, but it must be legally given in the following circumstances:
The Tenancy Builder has been updated to automatically include the latest version of the how to rent booklet.
For customers using the Tenancy Builder to create an assured shorthold tenancy, the following is advised:
The updated guide no longer includes a section dedicated to Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs). This may indicate a shift in focus towards tenancies in general, but landlords and tenants should still be aware of the rules and regulations surrounding ASTs.
The updated guide now includes the option to use Identity Verification Technology (IVT) for Right to Rent checks, streamlining the process for landlords and tenants. This allows for a more efficient and secure way of verifying the identity and immigration status of potential tenants.
The updated guide now includes sections on making changes to a property (such as requesting permission for alterations) and the tax obligations of landlords living outside the UK. These additions provide helpful information for landlords and tenants when negotiating property modifications and understanding the tax implications of renting from a non-resident landlord.
The guide lists the Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) as a reputable agent, offering landlords and tenants a reliable source for professional property advice and services.
The new guide reflects the latest smoke and carbon monoxide alarm regulations, ensuring landlords and tenants know their responsibilities regarding these essential safety devices.
A new section on checking the risk of flooding in your area has been added, highlighting the importance of understanding potential flood hazards and taking necessary precautions when renting a property.
The guide now uses updated terminology for reports detailing the condition of a property's electrical installations, clarifying the requirements for landlords and tenants.
A new section has been added to help disabled tenants assess whether a property suits their needs, offering guidance on what to look for and what adjustments may be necessary.
The updated guide includes a new section on considering the installation of smart meters, encouraging energy efficiency and cost savings for both landlords and tenants.
The guide now includes updated wording for fitting smoke alarms and carrying out Right to Rent checks, as well as a new section on considering requests for reasonable adjustments from disabled tenants.
A new section has been added to provide information on what happens if a tenant does not leave the property when required, offering guidance on the eviction process and the rights of both parties.
The updated guide replaces several abbreviations and terms with their full names (e.g., HMO to House of Multiple Occupation, EPC to Energy Performance Certificate, and local authorities to local council), providing a more precise understanding for landlords and tenants.
The updated "How to Rent: The Checklist for Renting in England" guide is an essential resource for landlords and tenants navigating the rental market in England. With the recent changes and additions, both parties must familiarise themselves with the latest information to ensure compliance with regulations and a smooth rental experience.
Download the updated guide at https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-rent and stay informed on your rights and responsibilities as a landlord or tenant.