Being a landlord can be stressful enough without problem tenants. The costs associated with running a property can often be great, and adding a tenants who causes damage or other issues can be a headache that’s not needed. There are a number of situations where as a landlord, you have the right to remove tenants from your property, in this article, we’ll look at the process and the correct ways to evict.
When can a landlord evict a renter?
Firstly, before you pursue an eviction, reach out to your tenants to see if you can come to an alternative resolution. If they have fallen behind with rent, this is often the quickest way to come to a solution. If you can help them and come to an agreement then great, however this isn’t always the case. Should you not be able to help, you may look to start the eviction process.
Sometimes a tenant can miss a payment through to no fault of their own, and communication can help to solve the problem before its escalated. As a landlord, it’s important to establish whether this is a one off or if it’s likely to become a recurring issue.
If a tenant misses a payment by as little as one day, it is possible to start the eviction process, but with many of us experiencing financial difficulties at some point in our lives, it’s important to show empathy as a landlord and communicate to get a fuller picture.
A tenant can withhold rent if they feel the landlord isn’t maintaining the property properly when repairs have been requested and issues arise. This is another situation where communication is key as landlords must fulfil their obligations as a landlord too.
Unfortunately, occasions do occur where tenants think they can live rent free at the landlords expense. If this is the case you should seek help immediately.
Should your tenants not pay rent, damage the property or cause nuisance, you are able to present them with a Section 8 eviction notice. In these cases you are able to terminate the tenancy during its fixed term. This is because the tenant is likely to have breached the tenancy agreement. They are able to dispute this and it could go to court, so you will need evidence to prove the reason for eviction.
You can also look to evict a renter by serving them with a ‘notice of possession’. This situation may arise if you’re looking to sell the property. With this notice you are able to take back possession of your property at the end of a fixed-term agreement, or trigger an agreed break clause. With a Section 21 notice of possession, you don’t have to provide any reason to claim possession.
How to protect your business as a landlord
It’s important as a landlord, that you have the appropriate insurance and cover to ensure you are protected for every eventuality. Whether that is a more enhanced buildings and contents insurance policy or Rent Guarantee insurance from providers such as HomeLet, there are a number of cover options available.
No matter how you protect yourself, it’s crucial you educate yourself around your rights and responsibilities as a landlord. These will help you in the longer term.
