Gas Safe week is approaching
We are proud to be supporting Gas Safety Week 2024, taking place 9th-15th September.
Gas Safety Week is an annual safety week to raise awareness of gas safety and the importance of taking care of your gas appliances. It is coordinated by Gas Safe Register, the official list of gas engineers who are legally allowed to work on gas.
The theme for 2024 is Checking—Every Check Counts; from checking that you’re complying with your legal gas responsibilities as a landlord, to checking that you, and your tenants, know what to do in a gas emergency. Every check (no matter how big or small) helps to keep your tenants and your property gas safe!
Badly fitted and poorly serviced gas appliances can cause gas leaks, fires, explosions, and carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning. CO is a highly poisonous gas that can kill quickly with no warning, as you cannot see it, taste it, or smell it.
A Student’s Perspective of Renting
According to Statista during the 2021/2022 academic year, there were approximately 2.2 million full-time and sandwich students in the United Kingdom (UK), with almost 347,680 occupying provider-maintained property. This tells us that the student market is vibrant and extremely strong.
I am a university student having completed my second year in Criminology & Law. I write this blog from the perspective of a tenant, focusing on student accommodation. This perspective is crucial for those who rent out student housing. My insights are based on my personal experience, which may differ from other students' experiences.
The Importance of Effective Communication with Landlords
In the United Kingdom, renting a property is a common living arrangement for millions of people. Whether you’re a student, a young professional, or a family, renting often means that you are reliant on your landlord for many aspects of your living conditions. Effective communication between tenants and landlords is essential for maintaining a positive and functional relationship.
Building Trust and Rapport
One of the primary reasons for maintaining open lines of communication with your landlord is to build trust. Trust is the foundation of any healthy relationship, and the tenant - landlord dynamic is no exception. Regular, honest communication helps to establish rapport, making it easier to resolve issues when they arise. When tenants communicate their needs and concerns respectfully and promptly, landlords are more likely to respond in kind, fostering a cooperative relationship.
Resolving Maintenance Issues Promptly
Maintenance is a key area where communication plays a critical role. From a leaky tap to a malfunctioning boiler, rental properties can encounter a variety of issues that need timely attention. Reporting problems to your landlord as soon as they arise not only ensures that repairs are carried out quickly but also helps prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs. Landlords appreciate tenants who are proactive in reporting issues, as it helps them maintain the property’s condition and avoid larger expenses in the future.