Frequently Asked Questions
- What is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST)?
An Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) is the most common type of rental agreement in the UK. It provides a fixed-term contract (usually 6–12 months), offering both landlords and tenants clear rights and responsibilities. As a landlord, you have a legal route to regain possession of your property if needed, typically through a Section 21 or Section 8 notice.
- What is a Company Let?
A Company Let is a lease agreement between you (the landlord) and a company (not an individual tenant). This arrangement is ideal for corporate employees, contractors, or professionals looking for housing. Company Lets can also be extended to Airbnb-style short-term lets or care provider contracts for supported living. These arrangements offer landlords a more reliable income stream, often with fewer void periods and higher rent potential.
- What is an HMO (House in Multiple Occupation)?
An HMO is a property where three or more tenants from different households live and share common areas like kitchens and bathrooms. These properties require specific licensing depending on the local council’s regulations. While they require more hands-on management, HMOs can generate a higher rental yield due to the multiple tenancies.
- How can I ensure my property is compliant with Rent Reform?
With the upcoming Rent Reform changes, landlords must stay informed about new legislation. Westbrook Property Group is committed to keeping you up to date with all legal requirements, including changes to tenant protection laws. Our team will guide you through these reforms and help you adjust your property management practices to ensure compliance.
- Can you help with property maintenance?
Yes! We offer full property management services, including routine inspections, maintenance coordination, and 24/7 emergency services. This ensures your property is well-maintained and that tenants have a positive experience, which helps with tenant retention and long-term profitability.
- What are the benefits of using a Company Let for my property?
There are several advantages to choosing a Company Let:
- Guaranteed income: Companies often have a stable income, reducing the risk of missed payments.
- Fewer void periods: Corporate tenants tend to stay longer.
- Flexibility: You can rent to companies with specific needs, such as Airbnb-style short stays or care providersseeking housing for their clients.
- Higher rent potential: In many cases, companies are willing to pay a premium for quality, flexible accommodation.
- What is the process for renting my property as an HMO?
We’ll walk you through the process from start to finish, including:
- Assessing whether your property meets HMO standards.
- Securing the necessary HMO licensing with your local council.
- Ensuring your property complies with safety and fire regulations.
- Managing multiple tenants and common areas to ensure the property operates smoothly.
- Do I need a special license for Company Lets or Airbnb-style rentals?
Depending on the type of letting (e.g., short-term lets or serviced accommodation), local councils may require specific licenses, especially in areas with high demand for short stays. Westbrook Property Group can help you navigate these regulations, ensuring your property is legally compliant for all types of tenancy.
- How do you screen tenants for my property?
We use a thorough tenant referencing process, including:
- Credit checks to ensure financial reliability.
- Previous landlord references to assess rental history.
- Employment verification to ensure a steady income.
- Right to rent checks to comply with UK immigration laws.
This ensures we only place responsible tenants in your property, minimising the risk of issues down the line.
- What if my property is vacant for an extended period?
Vacancy periods can be costly, but we work hard to minimise voids by providing high-quality marketing and extensive tenant screening. Our team will ensure your property is advertised effectively, attracting the right tenants quickly. In the case of longer vacancies, we can advise you on pricing adjustments or offer suggestions to make the property more appealing.
- Do you provide insurance for my rental property?
Yes, we offer comprehensive insurance for our landlords, in partnership with Goodlord Rent to Rent Insurance. This policy offers extensive cover designed specifically for landlords in rent-to-rent arrangements. The key benefits include:
- Rent protection in case tenants fail to pay rent.
- Legal expenses cover for eviction and disputes.
- Property damage protection, including accidental damage by tenants.
- Liability cover for personal injury or property damage claims.
This insurance helps to provide peace of mind, knowing that your investment is protected from unexpected events and issues that can arise during tenancies.
Find out more about our fees here