83% of landlords have reported breaches in tenancy agreements. This data emerges from a comprehensive survey conducted by Direct Line, which involved 500 landlords during October and November of the previous year. The findings indicate a significant challenge in the landlord-tenant relationship, with a variety of breaches being commonplace.

Common Breaches and Their Consequences

The breaches vary, but some stand out due to their frequency:

• Cleanliness and Maintenance Issues: At the top of the list, 36% of landlords cited tenants not maintaining the property’s cleanliness.
• Repairs Notification: A close second, with 29%, is the failure of tenants to inform landlords about necessary repairs.
• Other Notable Breaches: These include unauthorised property alterations, keeping pets without permission, smoking or vaping inside, and redecorating without consent. Each of these issues was reported by over a quarter of the landlords surveyed.

The most typical response from landlords includes deducting money from deposits, issuing warnings, or asking tenants to bear the cost of damages.

Regular Inspections A Preventive Measure

Direct Line advises landlords to conduct regular property inspections. Such measures can help in early detection of issues, potentially saving costs and preventing escalation of problems. Interestingly, only 55% of landlords perform biannual inspections, while 21% do so annually. A concerning 10% visit only at the start and end of tenancies, and 14% are even less frequent, potentially exacerbating the issue.

Expert Insights on Landlord Responsibilities

Harriet Scanlan, from Richmond’s Antony Roberts estate agency, highlights the challenges landlords face. Many juggle full-time jobs along with renting properties. She emphasises the value of a lettings agent in navigating the complex regulations and managing investments effectively.

Sarah Casey from Direct Line points out that property inspections, while crucial, should not feel intrusive to tenants. They are vital for maintaining good relationships and preempting major issues.

Government’s Stance on Pets

In 2021, the Government introduced a new model tenancy agreement aimed at making life easier for pet owners. This agreement removes restrictions on tenants with pets, encouraging landlords to be more pet-friendly. However, it’s important to note that this agreement is a template and not mandatory for landlords to follow.