Tenants 'Need To Be Realistic'

Tenants should be realistic if they intend to haggle with a landlord over the price of a rental property, it has been claimed.

According to a finance specialist firm, the market is strong at the moment with plenty of demand for houses. This means there may not be much room for negotiation.

However, it added if a property seems overpriced, tenants should do their research and show the landlord some comparable houses in the area.

Alternatively, the company suggested people may be able to negotiate on other areas, such as having a room decorated in a specific way or including a cleaner in the price. The manager of the firm said there may be some scope for a price reduction, but added tenants needed to be realistic.

He pointed out: "Some landlords may operate on tighter margins than others and may not be able to offer any discount."

What is the landlord responsible for?

•    Repairs to the structure and exterior of the property, heating and hot water installations, basins, sinks, baths and other sanitary installations.
•    The safety of gas and electrical appliances.
•    The fire safety of furniture and furnishings provided under the tenancy.
•    Ensuring that the property is fit for habitation.
•    Repairing and keeping in working order the room and water heating equipment.
•    The common areas in multi-occupancy dwellings.
•    Providing an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to new tenants.

What is the tenant responsible for?

•    Paying the rent as agreed and taking proper care of the property.
•    Bills for gas electricity, telephone, etc if this was agreed with your landlord.
•    In most cases, paying the council tax, water and sewerage charges.

If you are in doubt about anything it could be helpful to seek legal advice. Plus it is vital to remember to get your belongings covered by insurance.

If you would like to know more about tenancy why not ask AnswerBank Home and Garden.

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