Renters’ rights webinar: Starting a new tenancy – your FAQs
Since we launched our Renters' Rights Act webinar series, thousands of you have joined us to get to grips with the changes reshaping how you let and manage property.
Our latest session focused on how you start a tenancy under the new rules.
The abolition of the fixed term under the Renters’ Rights Act, has abolished the AST, meaning new tenancies created post- 1st May must be Assured Periodic Tenancies (APTs). The Act also introduced new requirements with regards to marketing your properties and anti-discrimination rules when it comes to selecting tenants.
We opened the webinar with a presentation covering these new requirements before answering your questions on how the new rules work.
Your Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is having affordability criteria classed as a form of discrimination?
A: No, you are still able to run the affordability checks that you need to as part of your business. The key to not falling foul of the anti-discrimination measures of the Renters' Rights Act is to avoid a blanket policy that excludes tenants on benefits or those with children, etc. but to assess each tenant and application on their individual basis and include all sources of income (including benefits) in the affordability check.
Q: Can I still advertise my properties as ‘students only’?
A: Yes, the Renters' Rights Act allows landlords to continue to let properties just to students, and this is clear in the Government guidance.
Q: What level of deposit can I take before signing a tenancy agreement?
A: Normally landlords can take both the holding deposit of up to one week's worth of rent, and a regular deposit of up to five weeks’ worth of rent before signing the tenancy agreement.
Q: My superior lease says those on benefits or with children are not allowed in the property. Is this still valid?
A: No, from the 1st May these terms effectively disappeared from your lease and are no longer valid. The same also applies to mortgage terms that would prohibit children or tenants receiving benefits.
If you registered for this webinar but were unable to join, you can watch it here.
More information
To visit our Renters' Rights Hub, packed with information and resources to help you manage the transition, click here.
We have also developed an exclusive Navigator tool, offering you your personalised "to-do list” tailored to your needs, which can be accessed here.
The NRLA's award-winning training academy runs a comprehensive Renters' Rights Act training offer. Click here to book
