Qaribbean
1 Thanks
16 Posts
Hi, seeking a bit of advice on best way to handle a potential Section 21.
Tenant has been in the property over 5 years, initially had 3yr TA and then had two 1 Year TAs back to back. As this last one approached end in start of December, I issued a new contract also advising of a 5% increase on rent (bear in mind I never increased rent during the 3 year TA and only increased rent for the first time at start of last 1 year TA and by £50 only). Tenant gets housing benefit as well.
Generally had a good relationship, few bumps but nothing major. Tenant didn't initially respond in December and then advised that they had to leave the country for family death and would update on return.
On return, chased them and they've responded that they don't want to sign a new deal, also can't afford an increase and have decided to look to move, but will "give you plenty of notice". As tenancy ended in December I offered a a short term tenancy for 3-6 months at the same rent level, for both our security however this was also politely refused and the reiterated they are looking for something else.
Having put an initial listing out for a potential move in date of March I've had interest from multiple candidates and all at a significantly higher rent, +20% (I was very underpriced).
My question is should I issue the tenants the Section 21 now and let them know they have 2months notice? Unless they are moving out of the area they will very unlikely find the same type of property for less and I don't want to allow them to stay put for potentially more than 2 months telling me they're still looking if they haven't signed something and more importantly I have other candidates willing to pay much more.
Also, in the event I issue the notice and they do then change their mind, how do I handle telling them I expect them to now pay the +20% price as I have viable candidates now willing to pay that and move in in 2 months time.
Thanks!
