Why Interim Property Visits Matter in the Private Rented Sector
The relationship between landlord and tenant is built upon trust, but property management requires regular oversight. One of the most valuable tools available to landlords and letting agents is the interim property visit, sometimes referred to as a routine inspection.
Whilst many landlords focus on the start and end of a tenancy, the period in between is often where issues can develop unnoticed. Regular interim visits provide an opportunity to identify problems early, maintain communication with tenants and protect both the property and the tenancy relationship.
Renters’ Rights Act -It’s All About the New Norm
Just one month into the implementation of Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, it is becoming clear that the issues and challenges being navigated by letting agents are consistent across England.
While experiences will vary from agency to agency, a number of common themes have emerged as letting agents adapt to the new legislative framework. In no particular order, the following trends are becoming apparent:-
Serving Section 8 (Form 3A) under Grounds 1 and 1A. Landlords are using the fact that tenancies created over 12 months ago do not bear the weight of the restrictions imposed by the Renters’ Rights Act 2025.
How does Your Garden Grow?
As the Chelsea Flower Show once again captures national attention, it is a timely reminder that outdoor space — no matter how large or small — remains one of the most valued aspects of any home. From beautifully landscaped gardens to compact courtyards and even small apartment balconies filled with herbs and flowers, outdoor areas have become so important to tenants and landlords.
In the lettings sector, gardens are often treated as an “extra”, but in reality they form part of the property itself and require the same level of care, management, and attention as the interior. Since Covid, there has been a noticeable shift in how tenants use and value outside space. Small gardens can be transformed into usable living areas, balconies become miniature growing spaces, and tenants seek properties where they can enjoy fresh air, entertain, or simply create a calmer environment away from busy working lives.
Settling Into Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act
An interesting and highly insightful few weeks. It has now been just over two weeks since the implementation of Phase 1 of the Renters’ Rights Act, and what has been particularly interesting is how quickly the practical, real-life implications have come to the fore.
The level of attention to detail demonstrated by letting agents and landlords in preparing for the service of the Information Sheet has been impressive. Ensuring that the document is served in a compliant, accurate, and diligent manner has clearly been a major priority across the sector.
The process itself involves a significant amount of work — carefully cross-referencing records to ensure that each individual tenant receives a copy of the Information Sheet, verifying that correct tenant email addresses are held on file, and in many cases taking additional steps where there is any concern that service may later be challenged or deemed invalid.