Landlord Newsletter - Autumn/Winter 2021

Landlord Newsletter from Mid and East Antrim Borough Council Autumn/Winter 2021

MEA.envhealth@midandeastantrim.gov.uk 0300 124 5000

Dampness in private rental properties Structural dampness is the presence of unwanted moisture in the structure of a building, either the result of intrusion from outside or condensation from within the structure. Dampness can originate from: • Leaking pipes- waste, drainage and overflows

Welcome to Mid and East Antrim’s first edition of the Landlord Newsletter, for private landlords within the borough. This newsletter aims to bring you useful and topical information on a range of issues all related to private rental properties.

This edition covers the Housing Mediation Service, Landlord Registration, advice on dampness within properties, as well as some useful links.

Further information and advice is always available by contacting The Environmental Health Department, we’d be happy to hear from you!

Email: MEA.envhealth@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

What is Housing Mediation?

A process aimed at resolving a dispute that has occurred in a private tenancy. An independent mediator with specialist housing knowledge helps the two sides, including landlords, talk about their dispute and come to a solution that works for everyone. When both parties in the dispute have agreed to take part in mediation it can happen over the phone or face to face whichever is most appropriate for those involved. The service is free of charge.

How is the service accessed? Phone Housing Rights: 028 9024 5640 and pick option 6 Email: mediation@housingrights.org.uk

What kind of disputes can mediation help with?

• Property standards • Repairs • Entry rights • Unprotected tenancy deposits • Rent/rates arrears • Evictions or threatened evictions • Breach of tenancy terms • Noise/Anti-social behaviour

Tenancy Deposit – changes coming The Private Tenancies Bill, if passed by the Northern Ireland Assembly will see the following legislative changes:

0300 124 5000

Rain water from defective roof coverings, blocked or leaking gutters and broken pipes

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Penetrating dampness around windows, through walls and due to raised ground levels

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Rising damp due to lack of, or no effective, damp proof course

What is condensation?

If the air gets colder it cannot hold all the moisture in the air and tiny drops of water appear - this is condensation. Kitchens and bathrooms (wet rooms) are often primary sources of atmospheric water. Condensation is commonly found in corners, windows, behind wardrobes and it often forms on north-facing walls. The development of black mould growth in the most tell-tale sign that is frequently associated with condensation.

Telephone: 0300 124 5000

MEA.envhealth@midandeastantrim.gov.uk

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Condensation - Note black mould growth around window

How do I reduce condensation in my private rental property?

Tenants should be correctly advised on what daily activites create excess moisture, such as cleaning and cooking and asked to increase ventilation where posible. As a landlord you should ensure that the property is adequately insulated and draught proofed. Some tips on how to improve insulation include: Insulate your loft but do not block the opening under the eaves.

Consider installing cavity wall insulation but remeber to check if you need building regulation approval.

Think about installing secondary and double glazing to reduce heat loss and draughts through windows.

Dry line affected walls by gluing insulated plasterboard.

MEDIATION FLYER

• Tenancy deposits limited to one month’s rent • Tenancy deposits must be protected in and approved scheme within 28 days of receipt and tenants notified of same within 35 days.

Rising damp - Note mould growth and presence of salts

If left untreated, dampness and the associated mould growth can become prejudicial to the health of your tenants. Landlords have legislative responsibility to ensure their properties are free from dampness and fit for occupation.

For further assistance regarding grants to improve energy efficiency within properties please visit: www.midandeastantrim.gov.uk/resident/healthandwellbeing/keeping-warm-keeping-well

REMINDER - Landlord Registration You must register before you rent out your property and your registration will last for 3 years, so if you registered as a landlord in 2015, and again in 2018, your registration will lapse this year.

How to register online at: www.landlordregistration.nidirect.gov.uk/ by calling: 0300 200 7821 (at a charge of £70).

Mid and East Antrim Borough Council can issue a fixed penalty of up to £500 if you do not register.

If you do not pay the penalty, Council can prosecute you through the Courts, where you can fined up to £2500 upon conviction.

Getting the paperwork right.

Please feel free to download and use the below templates for any of your existing or new tenancies. These are also available by visiting the Mid and East Antrim Borough Council website at: midandeastantrim.gov.uk/private-tenancies

Sample rent book

MEA.envhealth@midandeastantrim.gov.uk 0300 124 5000

Sample statement of tenancy terms

Sample notice to quit