Author: Contend Legal
Share Codes Explained: Right to Rent Checks for Tenants and Landlords
What is the Right to Rent Check? The Right to Rent check is a legal requirement for landlords in England. Before renting out a property, landlords must check that every adult tenant has the right to live in the UK. This rule was introduced as part of the government’s efforts to prevent people without legal…
Renting Your Property to the Council: A Landlord’s Guide
Introduction to Renting Out to the Council Renting out your property to a local council means leasing your home directly to the council, rather than to a private tenant. The council then uses your property as part of its social housing stock, providing accommodation for people in need within the community. This is different from…
Rent Inventories and Check-In Reports: Your Essential Guide
What is a Rent Inventory? A rent inventory is a detailed written record that describes the condition and contents of a rental property at the very start of a tenancy. It usually includes a room-by-room breakdown, listing items such as furniture, appliances, carpets, curtains, and even the state of the walls, floors, and windows. Photographs…
Refuge Housing: Safe Accommodation for Domestic Abuse Survivors
Understanding Refuge Housing for Domestic Abuse Refuge housing is a type of safe, temporary accommodation designed specifically for people escaping domestic abuse. Its main purpose is to offer a secure place to stay when home is no longer safe, giving victims and their children a chance to recover and rebuild their lives away from harm.…
Possession Orders Explained: Your Rights and Next Steps
Understanding Possession Orders A possession order is a legal decision made by a court that gives a landlord the right to take back possession of a property from a tenant. Its main purpose is to resolve disputes when a landlord believes they have a legal reason to end a tenancy, such as rent arrears, breach…
How to Prove Illegal Subletting as a UK Landlord
What is Illegal Subletting? Illegal subletting happens when a tenant rents out all or part of your property to someone else without your permission. This could mean letting out a single room, or even the entire property, to another person. Most tenancy agreements in the UK clearly state that subletting is not allowed unless the…
Overhanging Tree Branches and Roots: Legal Overview
Introduction to Overhanging Tree Branches and Roots When a tree grows close to the boundary between two properties, its branches or roots can sometimes extend into a neighbour’s land. Overhanging branches may block sunlight, drop leaves or fruit, or even damage fences and structures. Invasive roots can disrupt paving, drains, or garden beds, leading to…