CIA Landlords

Damaged Property

Most landlords will experience an issue of some degree with damages to their property at some point. We advise on how to handle deliberate and non-deliberate damage to the property or its contents.
The inside of a house being repaired

Are landlords responsible for structural repairs?

30-06-2025

There are many things that you will be responsible for as a landlord, from ensuring appliances are safe and properly maintained to managing tenant relationships, your hands will be full from start to finish. But are landlords responsible for structural repairs, too?  Here, we’ll discuss your responsibilities as a landlord regarding any structural damage to […]
Coffee spilled on carpet

Should a landlord replace carpets?

20-06-2025

If you are wondering if a landlord should replace carpets in a rented property, you have come to the right place. Although there isn’t a specific statutory obligation highlighting whether landlords are responsible for carpets, it is always your responsibility to ensure your rental property is safe and habitable.  Here, we’ll discuss your responsibilities as a landlord when it comes to carpets for your tenants, including why you may want to replace your carpets. 
A birds-eye-view of a man cleaning a pool

Are landlords responsible for pool maintenance?

05-06-2025

With summer just around the corner, most people are getting their swimming pools ready. Having a swimming pool is a great perk for any rental property as it will attract tenants and add significant value to your property. But are landlords responsible for pool maintenance, or are tenants responsible for this?  As with most maintenance […]
Male exterminator from pest control service wearing protective safety mask and blue workwear suit working inside house spraying toxic liquid from a yellow sprayer

Are landlords responsible for pest control?

12-05-2025

An invasion of pests, such as rats, bed bugs, cockroaches and flies, can be a nightmare situation. It can leave both the tenant and the landlord wondering: are landlords responsible for pest control? In the United Kingdom, the answer isn’t a straightforward yes or no, and there are laws in place. Generally, landlords must act […]
An image of a person plumbing

Who is responsible for plumbing repairs in a rental?

29-04-2025

Building a property portfolio brings many positive benefits, though there can be a few small bumps in the road. Plumbing issues can create headaches for landlords and tenants, but they are easy to solve with good communication and knowledge of the tenancy agreement. The first step is understanding who is responsible for plumbing repairs in […]
An image of someone using a plunger to unblock a drain

Is a landlord responsible for a clogged sink?

14-04-2025

Having to deal with a clogged sink is something small that can quickly escalate to a major disruption if not dealt with quickly enough. You may be wondering, though, if a landlord is responsible for a clogged sink. But, there is no straightforward answer to this question, and the issue can at times become complicated.  […]
A woman putting laundry in a washing machine

Do landlords have to provide a washer and dryer?

02-04-2025

Landlords do not have to provide a washer and dryer for tenants, however, it is something that definitely adds to the value of your property when looking for new tenants. Some tenants may be first-time renters and may not have their own washer or dryer, so being able to provide this for your tenants is […]
An image of a blocked toilet being fixed with a plunger.

Is a blocked toilet the landlord’s responsibility?

03-03-2025

Having a blocked toilet is never fun, especially when it is your responsibility to unblock it. But, is a blocked toilet the landlord’s responsibility? With being a landlord comes the responsibility of making sure your tenants have a drainage system that works. Blocked toilets can cause a large amount of damage, including:  Overflow and flooding, […]
A leaking roof, with water filling up buckets and tenants in the background on the phone to the landlord.

What repairs are tenants responsible for?

18-02-2025

What repairs are tenants responsible for? This is a question that often gets asked and can potentially open up a can of worms if not answered correctly. It is important for both tenants and landlords to understand what their repair responsibilities are to avoid any confusion and to prevent any disputes when damages occur and […]
An image of a window that isn't sealed properly.

Are landlords responsible for drafty windows?

03-02-2025

Are landlords responsible for drafty windows? The short answer to this is yes. Being a landlord means that you need to ensure things like drafty windows are fixed, as this will keep your tenants feeling comfortable in their living space.  Drafty windows in rental properties are a common concern, and, as stated in section 11 […]
An image of a blocked kitchen sink with a tenant trying to fix it with tools

Who is responsible for blocked drains - the tenant or landlord?

23-01-2025

The issue of blocked drains is a long-standing problem in the world of property and renting. Many people are unaware of who is responsible for a blocked drain; is it the tenant or the landlord? Here, we hope to shed some light on this issue by providing an overview of the legal frameworks that determine […]

Do I Need Landlord Insurance By Law?

08-01-2025

As a landlord, you have many tasks before renting your property to tenants. This includes – but isn’t limited to – ensuring you have the correct licences, permits and safety certificates to avoid landlord fines. But what about landlord insurance? Is landlord insurance required by law? Let’s find out. Is Landlord insurance required by law? […]
Black mould growing on the ceiling in a rental property.

What should you do about black mould in a rental property?

06-01-2025

Mould in a home is every dweller’s nightmare. Where is it coming from? Is there more yet to be discovered? What’s causing it and will it get worse? Mould can be extremely dangerous – black mould even more so. It’s incredibly important that a landlord is aware of their responsibilities when it comes to dealing […]
A close up of a smashed window.

Who pays for accidental damage caused by a tenant?

21-12-2024

It is a question that landlords and tenants alike frequently ask. In the event of accidental damage by a tenant, who pays? This is a slightly more complicated question to answer than you might first imagine. A lot depends on the specific circumstances and the type of damage. It is also important to emphasise that […]
A mouse in a kitchen between jars of pasta.

Who is responsible for mice in rented property?

21-12-2024

Mice are an unpleasant surprise for any landlord or tenant. They’re not just a countryside issue – they can infest homes, offices, and even urban apartments. When asking who is responsible for mice in rented property, the answer isn’t always straightforward. It depends on several factors. Was the infestation present before the tenant moved in? […]
A man using products for black mould remediation treatment wearing a respirator mask and using bottle spray.

What should you do about black mould in a rental property?

21-12-2024

Mould in a home is every dweller’s nightmare. Where is it coming from? Is there more yet to be discovered? What’s causing it and will it get worse? Mould can be extremely dangerous – black mould even more so. It’s incredibly important that a landlord is aware of their responsibilities when it comes to dealing […]
A broken window

What to do if a tenant destroys your property

20-12-2024

There are many different options available to you as a landlord if a tenant destroys your property.  Here, we’ll take a look at what your options are and what the best approach to take is. It is likely that there will be more damage in a rental property due to the frequent change in tenants, […]
A close-up of a man's hand painting white paint onto a wall.

Who is responsible for painting - landlord or tenant?

06-11-2024

Understanding who is responsible for painting – the landlord or tenant in the UK is important. This can sometimes be a point of contention between the two parties. This guide provides an overview of the general responsibilities between a landlord and a tenant when it comes to painting so that you can be confident within […]
An empty room with flood damage.

Are landlords responsible for flood damage?

06-11-2024

If you’re a landlord and you’re wondering how to navigate landlord flood responsibilities, you’ve come to the right place. This blog will provide landlords with practical advice and outline the responsibilities between landlord and tenant when it comes to flood damage. As a rule, landlords are responsible for all repairs on rental properties, including flood […]
A frozen pipe with icicles on it

How to keep pipes from freezing

04-11-2024

With winter knocking on our doorsteps and the frozen weather being an accomplice, keeping your pipes from freezing is a necessity. Here, we’ll take a look at how to prevent frozen pipes, as well as how to defrost frozen pipes. There are risks that come with frozen pipes which is why it is important to […]

Landlord and tenant responsibilities for repairs

19-10-2024

Property damage is possibly the most misunderstood area of the renting process, as there are often many grey areas. Who is responsible for what? What type of damage can be classed as accidental? How do you know the difference between damage and fair wear and tear? Here, we take a look at a landlord and […]
A man with rubber gloves on holding a torch over a mattress, revealing bed bugs.

Are landlords responsible for bed bugs?

14-10-2024

Bed bugs are a nightmare for any landlord and tenant. They’re not just something that your parents warned you of when you were a child. They are a real problem, be it in homes, hospitals or public transport. When asking, are landlords responsible for bed bugs, the answer is not always straightforward. This is because […]

What to Do If a Tenant Damages the Property

13-09-2024

Thinking of suing a tenant for property damage? No landlord ever wants to discover malicious damage caused by a tenant or get involved in a dispute with the tenant about who is responsible for paying for the damage. We’ll provide information and guidance on tenant property damage and how to sue a tenant for malicious […]
A flatlay image of paint swatches and pots of paint.

Can you decorate a rented house?

02-09-2024

Our homes are a reflection of ourselves and the families within them. Whether it’s photos on the mantelpiece, our favourite colours on the walls or trinkets and sentimental items adorning the sideboards; every home tells a different story. Decorating a house is something that the majority of homeowners and dwellers take pride in. As a […]
A low-angle shot of a professional cleaning mopping a laminate floor.

Can a landlord charge for cleaning?

02-09-2024

Landlords can find themselves in many undesirable situations. Being faced with a property that hasn’t been well looked after and needs a deep clean is definitely one of them. It can be very frustrating when tenants don’t look after a property as you would. So, can a landlord charge for cleaning? Typically, no – a […]
A person holding cleaning products.

End of tenancy cleaning guide for landlords

22-02-2024

As a landlord, the turnover period between tenants is crucial for maintaining the value of your property and ensuring a pleasant start for new occupants. A significant aspect of this process is the end of tenancy cleaning. While it might seem straightforward, understanding your rights and responsibilities around this task is essential for a smooth transition. […]
White carpet with a coffee stain on it

How often should a landlord replace a carpet?

04-01-2024

Carpets can easily become damaged or stained during tenancies. Red wine spillage, makeup stains, hair dye disasters, pet damage, fire damage, or the like can all cause irreversible damage to carpets. It can. be difficult to know how often you would need to replace your carpets as a landlord. In cases such as these, landlords […]
Plumbing tools

What are landlord fixtures and fittings?

18-12-2023

Fixtures and fittings are items that are permanently attached (or ‘affixed’/’fixed’) – to a property.  The majority of tenancy agreements will list the fixtures and fittings a landlord is responsible for repairing in a property. Therefore, landlords not taking proper care of repairing fixtures and fittings can end up with tenants taking them to court […]

How to find out if a property has flooded before

27-07-2023

If you’re looking to generate capital growth or earn rental income, buying a property for the purpose of renting it out can be financially rewarding. However, something like flooding can ruin your property and, in some cases,  force your tenants out of it for several months whilst the property is being dried out and repaired. […]
Image of home in a storm.

How to protect your rental property from storm damage

04-07-2023

Severe storms have become more common in recent years in the UK. In fact, February 2022 saw three separate storms hit the UK in the space of one week, storms Dudley, Eunice, and Franklin. Storm Eunice was the most damaging storm in England and Wales since February 12th 2014.  With this increase in severe storms […]
Unhappy tenant

What should landlords do to stop mould?

05-05-2023

Tragically, you may have heard the terrible outcomes of untreated mould. But what should landlords do to stop mould?  With fatal cases being reported across London and the UK, many Landlord Associations and Landlord Guilds are stepping up to provide landlords with actionable pointers to help protect tenants against mould.  Mould is a common problem […]
Electrical safety in rental property

How to detect electrical damage in a rental property

03-04-2023

Electrical safety should be at the top of your list as a landlord. It’s your responsibility to ensure that your rental property is safe for your tenants to live in. One of the key areas to consider is electrical safety, as faulty wiring or damaged appliances can pose a serious risk to your tenants. In […]

Property Damage Jargon Buster

04-11-2022

From malicious damage to accidental scuffs and scrapes, as a landlord it’s important to know the difference between the two. Our property damage jargon buster provides you with a breakdown and definition of all the words and phrases that are commonly used throughout this section of our advice centre and might be confusing you.   […]

Signs of structural damage to a house

04-11-2022

Whether you’re preparing to view a potential investment property or are inspecting your current rental, you should be on the lookout for structural damage. Even small structural issues can escalate, leading to eye-watering repair bills. We’ll show you signs of structural damage to a house so you can stop further damage in its tracks. What is […]

How to protect a property from fire

12-10-2022

‘I want to protect my rental property from a fire.’ – we hear you. Your asset will need to follow some legal fire safety requirements. In hand with this, you should be taking the steps listed below to safeguard your tenants from fire emergencies. As a landlord, you should have clarity over what requirements you […]

How to deal with water damage in house

03-10-2022

Water damage is one of the most destructive and common emergencies you could face in your property. Having a clear procedures plan in place to deal with water damage before it occurs will reduce critical response time and hopefully protect your property from further damage. Safeguard your property from the get-go Your insurance is of imperative importance and […]

Effects of smoke damage to a property

29-09-2022

Smoke damage is always a real headache to fix, and this is the major cause of many landlords not being able to complete a full smoke damage recovery project on a property. The invasive nature of smoke can be more devastating than the fire itself, with soot later being discovered in places such as air […]

Insurance for flood risk properties

18-07-2022

Given that flooding only tends to vault to the top of the national conversation at times of obvious crisis, it can sometimes be easy for property owners to assume floods are only a genuine risk to a tiny minority of houses. However, with past assessments having found that about one in six properties in England – approximately […]

How to prevent flood water from entering your house

26-06-2022

There are around five million people who live in flood-risk areas in England and Wales – one in six homes in England are at risk of flooding. Flooding is a risk that everyone should be cautious of in the UK, and while it’s not possible to floodproof your home completely, there are several measures you can take in […]

Effect of flooding on property value

18-05-2022

Flooding – we all know it’s a possibility, but few of us prepare for the potential risks. In England alone, more than 5 million properties are at risk of flooding, with the annual cost of damages estimated at over £1 billion. If your property floods, it may no longer be fit for habitation and, in such cases, […]

Are tenants liable for damages to a neighbour's property?

22-03-2022

It can be tricky for landlords to figure out what they’re liable for and what tenants are liable for, particularly when it comes to damage to a neighbour’s property. After all, if your tenant floods the neighbour’s flat, they should be the one who foots the bill and not you, right? The good news is […]

How to check for frozen pipes

18-03-2022

When the temperature drops, excess water inside a pipe can freeze. As the water freezes, it will expand, causing pressure to build inside the pipe. In such cases, there are two potential outcomes for landlords. At best, frozen pipes will temporarily stop the flow of running water. At worst, the pipe may burst and lead […]

How bad is water damage to a house?

20-01-2022

Whether it’s losing a tenant or finding alternative accommodation for tenants whilst repairs take place, damage to your property as a result of a flood or leak can be a headache. Unsurprisingly, loss of rental income is one of the biggest concerns for landlords and property owners, and after an unforeseen event, loss of rental income can […]

How to get rid of bird infestation in your property

20-01-2022

Many landlords will go above and beyond to make sure that their tenants are happy whilst living at their property. However, dealing with a major bird infestation is not usually in the cards for most landlords, but it can happen. For obvious reasons, birds can become a real nuisance for landlords and tenants alike. It’s not just […]

How long does a landlord have to make deductions?

21-12-2021

As a landlord, the topic of deposit deductions will come onto your radar as a tenancy ends. You don’t have long to identify any issues with your property before deciding to make deductions or return the deposit in full. Get your checklist ready as we answer the question – how long does a landlord have […]

How to detect water damage in a house

17-11-2021

The winter season brings new challenges for landlords. With the colder weather setting in, properties are more vulnerable to damage, so it’s important to take extra care when carrying out your property inspections and encourage your tenants to be vigilant of any signs of water damage. Here we’ll share our guide on how to detect water damage in […]

Can a wasp nest damage your house?

15-10-2021

When you first discover a wasp nest in your rental property, of course alarm bells will be ringing. Many concerns may be racing through your mind. How much damage is going to be caused to my property? What action do I need to take to wipe it out? And as a landlord, am I responsible […]

What is considered damage to a rental property?

27-09-2021

During your tenants stay, you may have made regular visits to the property to check that everything is in working order. But when it comes to moving out day, you may uncover some hidden surprises. Now that the furniture no longer hides bumps and scrapes, you may be wondering if you need to make deductions […]

Who pays for accidental damage to rental property?

30-07-2021

As the familiar saying goes, accidents happen. Arguably, they are especially likely to happen to a property you let out, given the rapid turnover of tenants it could see even within just a few years. Worse, when an accident does occur, permanent damage can result. You can take steps to minimise the likelihood of damage, […]

Fair Wear and Tear

02-12-2020

As a landlord, it’s important to remain realistic and understand that you’re very unlikely to get your property back in exactly the condition you rented it out in. Your brand new, pristine white carpets probably won’t be the same shade of white a year or two down the line. You must expect fair wear and […]

Malicious Damage to Your Property

13-11-2020

When a landlord agrees to rent their property to a tenant, they trust that this person will look after and respect that property as if it were their own. Sadly though, that isn’t always the way it goes. Accidental damage can happen to anyone, however malicious damage is much more serious. Malicious damage involves an […]

Electrical Safety Regulations for landlords

28-08-2020

Whilst the majority of landlords take the safety of their tenants seriously, the same cannot be said for everyone. That’s why there are rules in place when it comes to things like electrical safety regulations that every landlord must follow. For the majority of landlords in the private rented sector, this won’t require them to […]

Gas Safety Regulations

05-02-2020

As a landlord, it is up to you to make sure that your tenants remain safe in the property that you’re letting. You trust them to look after your property, and they trust you to maintain a good standard of living for them. Part of these responsibilities involves making sure that all gas appliances, fittings, […]

What to do When a Neighbour Damages Your Property

11-10-2019

You could be blessed with the conscientious and careful tenants that every landlord dreams of, but all it takes is a few less careful neighbours and you’ve got yourself a case of property damage. It can be tricky to know where you stand when a neighbour damages your rental property. Should they be the ones […]

Fire safety regulations for landlords

15-08-2019

A landlord’s responsibility is to make sure that you are providing a safe place for your tenants to live. Within this realm sits fire safety. There are a lot of fire safety regulations for landlords and it often differs from country to country. Particularly after tragic incidents such as the Grenfell Tower fire in 2017, […]

What Causes Mould?

11-03-2019

Damp and mould in a home can really affect a person’s health and decrease the value of a property so needless to say, it’s not something a landlord should take lightly. Plus, it’s legally a landlord’s obligation to keep this side of their property in working order. Caused by excess moisture, removing mould is usually a costly […]

Top 5 Types of Damage in Rented Property

21-09-2018

CIA Landlords can compare landlord insurance to find the perfect policy for your needs. To find out how we can help, contact us and get a quote today.

Landlord duties and responsibilities

18-06-2018

As a landlord with one or multiple properties, understanding your landlord obligations is crucial. Protecting your investment involves knowing your landlord duties and responsibilities, especially in the event that you encounter property damage of some description.  To ensure a safe and habitable environment for your tenants, diligent property maintenance is essential. By fulfilling your landlord […]
Damaged Property

Damaged Property

Most landlords will experience an issue of some degree with damages to their property at some point. We advise on how to handle deliberate and non-deliberate damage to the property or its contents.

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Financial

Financial

It’s so important for landlords to know their stuff when it comes to money and finances. Here you’ll find advice on everything from rental arrears, deposits and many other important financial issues.

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Illegal Activity

Illegal Activity

We explore and advise on issues regarding illegal activity taking place at a rented property – with everything from drugs and cannabis farms, to the setting up of secret brothels and gambling dens.

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Landlord and Tenant Disputes

Landlord and Tenant Disputes

Here, you’ll find comprehensive advice pieces on how to manage landlord and tenant disputes. Dealing with tenant and neighbourly disputes in the correct way is so important as a landlord, whether it be noise complaints or financial disputes.

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Landlord Insurance Advice

Landlord Insurance Advice

Landlord insurance can protect landlords in the event of fire, theft, loss of rent and more. Whether you’re considering cover or have just taken out a policy, we’ll guide you through the topic of landlord insurance.

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Legal Advice for Landlords

Legal Advice for Landlords

It’s important to approach legal issues carefully to honour your tenants’ rights, so pay attention to the details. Find advice on the most common legal issues landlords face.

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Other

Other

We explore all of the other issues and situations that may arise for landlords, so that you can feel confident and in-the-know.

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Pets

Pets

Should you relax your ‘no pets’ policy, or is an animal-friendly rental a recipe for disaster? We explore the pro’s and con’s of housing tenants furry friends and how to deal with unauthorised pets, complaints and damages.

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Property Access

Property Access

Once you hand over the keys to your tenant, you can’t just turn up and visit your buy-to-let property as and when you like. Here you’ll find advice on the correct protocols to follow when carrying out inspections and guidance on what might constitute too much contact between you and your tenant.

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Property Maintenance & Interiors

Property Maintenance & Interiors

Every landlord wants their rental property to stay in top condition, and tenants may want to decorate their new home. Read our advice about garden and property maintenance, and interiors here.

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Property Occupants

Property Occupants

Squatters and unregistered tenants and guests are more common than you might think, so it’s vital you’re aware of the rules and regulations and how to deal with these issues correctly. We explore the in’s and out’s of squatters rights and secret subletters so that you don’t get caught out.

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Safety Regulations

Safety Regulations

It’s a landlord's responsibility to ensure that a rental property is compliant with all safety regulations - from gas certificates to fire safety measures. Here, we talk about every safety regulation you should be aware of.

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Screening Process

Screening Process

It’s no secret that the screening process is so important to get right, as it’s the foundations to ensuring an easy and simple tenancy. Here, we offer advice regarding applications, credit and background checks – and everything else you may need to know before selecting your future tenants.

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Utilities

Utilities

There is often confusion around the topic of utilities. Even with the tenants’ names on the bill, landlords can still be responsible in some cases. We’ll guide you through the topic of utilities here.

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