CIA Landlords

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.
Cardboard boxes ready for moving, next to a sofa

Tenants’ possessions left behind? Here’s what landlords need to know

04-07-2025

Dealing with left behind tenants’ possessions is one of the last things landlords want to experience when going through a void period, but unfortunately, it’s pretty common. It might be tempting to simply throw them away, but there are strict legal guidelines to follow. This guide will highlight those legal responsibilities and showcase the best […]
Someone holding their mobile phone while working on the computer.

Tenant employment verification best practices for landlords

23-06-2025

If you are the kind of landlord who manages your own properties, you’ll know that there are many different responsibilities you’ll have to ensure that the right tenant moves into your property. Tenant employment verification is one of the many tasks you’ll need to undertake to ensure this.  While there are many important hats to […]
Smashed window with broken glass.

Are landlords responsible for tenants’ behaviour?

10-06-2025

As a landlord, you manage your property as a whole, ensuring it is maintained, safe to live in, and that rent is collected on time. But are landlords responsible for tenants’ behaviour? When the issue is a disruptive tenant over a broken light switch or a leaky tap, you’ll need to tap into your people-managing […]
A person in a wheelchair being given a key for a rental property

A landlord's obligations to disabled tenants

28-04-2025

It is your responsibility to ensure that you create a safe and inclusive environment for your tenants if they are disabled. As a landlord, you’re required to understand and meet the specific needs of these tenants so that their living conditions are suited to their needs. Here, we’ll discuss landlord obligations to disabled tenants, including […]
An image of a lease application form

Why a previous landlord reference is important

20-03-2025

It can be daunting renting out your property to someone you don’t know, and this is why it is imperative to get a previous landlord reference from your tenant before agreeing for them to rent from you.  Here, we’ll discuss the reasons for obtaining a previous landlord reference, including the questions to ask previous landlords.  […]

How to Get Rid of Squatters

09-01-2025

You may be surprised to learn that squatting itself is not a crime and ‘squatters rights’ make solving the issue slightly more complicated. It is vital that landlords fully understand these rights, along with their own, in order to not breach the law when attempting to evict squatters. This guide will explain how to get […]
Discovering my tenant has a hoarding problem in my property

Help - My Tenant is a Hoarder

09-01-2025

One of the most important and taxing things as a landlord is finding suitable tenants to live in your property. Even with a thorough screening process, you’ll never know quite what a tenant is like until they begin living in your property. It will be difficult to know if your tenant is a hoarder. You […]
An image of a house key on top of a tenancy agreement.

What is a periodic rolling tenancy?

14-10-2024

As a landlord, you have a variety of options when it comes to structuring a tenancy for your tenants. One common tenancy arrangement is the periodic rolling tenancy which offers flexibility and convenience for yourself and your tenants. Here, we’ll explore everything you need to know about periodic rolling tenancies and what to consider if you’re […]
Utility bills spread out next to a calculator

How to manage end of tenancy utility bills

09-10-2024

As a tenancy draws to an end, there are various details that you, as a landlord, should manage, from inspecting the property to settling final bills. One crucial aspect often overlooked is managing end of tenancy utility bills.  Ensuring that all utilities are handled correctly not only protects you financially but also helps maintain a […]
An exasperated woman on the sofa holding cushions over each ear because of tenant noise.

What are the most common tenant complaints?

07-10-2024

If you are new to being a landlord, you may be wondering what the most common tenant complaints are and how you can equip yourself to effectively deal with them.  Not all complaints from tenants will be the same, and so there is not one way to effectively manage situations like these. However, there are […]
Two worries tenants speaking to a lawyer about the protection from eviction act 1977.

What is the Protection from Eviction Act of 1977?

27-09-2024

The Protection from Eviction Act of 1977 is a piece of UK legislation that protects tenants from being unlawfully evicted by landlords from their homes. There is a legal procedure that must be followed by a landlord if they wish to evict their tenant, and this is what the Act sets out to enforce. Failing […]
An image of a tenant looking at paperwork of banned tenant fees.

Banned tenant fees and penalties for landlords

27-09-2024

Banned tenant fees have occurred as a result of recent tenant law reforms. They have had a significant impact on the rental market by getting rid of many of the costs that tenants were previously made to pay.  The law reforms were introduced in an attempt to create a fairer rental market and protect tenants […]
An image of a woman holding out a tenant eviction notice.

Tenant eviction notice (Section 21)

27-09-2024

A Section 21 tenant eviction notice is the first step taken by the landlord to start the eviction process. The landlord will tell the tenant how much notice they have to vacate the property before a possession order is given.  A section 21 tenant eviction notice gets its name from the section of the Act […]

Selling a house with a sitting tenant

27-09-2024

Selling a house with sitting tenants comes with various challenges and considerations which landlords will need to take into account throughout this process. While it can be a little complicated, you can sell a property with a sitting tenant, and landlord-landlord sales are quite common. However, it is also true that some buyers will have […]
An image of tenants signing a tenancy agreement.

How to find private renters online

09-09-2024

As a landlord, you may want to figure out how to find private renters online.  This could be to save on letting agency costs, or simply to secure private tenants and avoid all the paperwork that comes with hiring a letting agency.  Or, you may simply want to take a more hands-on approach to letting […]
Two hands shaking after an agreement to rent a property.

How to conduct right to rent checks

29-07-2024

In the UK, right to rent checks are an important part of the tenant screening process. Before any tenancy agreement is made, it is the responsibility of the landlord to check if the tenant is allowed to rent in the UK. If a tenant fails these checks, the landlord legally cannot give the tenant a […]
An image of an eviction notice and a wooden model of a house.

Evicting someone with a Writ of Possession

29-07-2024

A writ of possession can be a great tool for landlords when navigating the challenging aspects of dealing with non-compliant tenants. While eviction is never the ideal outcome, sometimes it can be the only choice to maintain the integrity of your property and the well-being of your rental business.   This blog will explore the eviction […]
An abandoned property with tenant belongings stockpiled outside the property.

Notice of Abandonment

17-06-2024

In the realm of legal and property matters, understanding various notices and their implications can be crucial. One such notice that holds significance, especially in the context of property and being a landlord, is the ‘Notice of Abandonment’.  A notice of abandonment will leave landlords unsure of whether or not the tenant will return, causing […]
An inspector holding a pen and paper, waling around the house, looking at a window.

How to Conduct an End of Tenancy Inspection

31-05-2024

As a landlord, ensuring your property remains in top condition is crucial. Regular maintenance and responsible tenants are important, but a vital step often overlooked is the end of tenancy inspection.  This process safeguards your investment by identifying any damages and guaranteeing a smooth handover to new tenants. Whether you’re a seasoned landlord or just […]
Two block of flats figures.

How to notify tenants of a new landlord

28-05-2024

Transitioning to a new landlord is a significant change for any tenant, and handling this process with care is crucial for maintaining trust and continuity in landlord-tenant relationships. If you are a property owner who is handing over the reins to a new landlord, or if you are stepping into the shoes of a landlord taking […]
A group of people sitting around a table in a shared living property.

The top UK hotspots for HMO investments

24-05-2024

HMOs have become popular for property investors looking to maximise rental yields and tap into the demand for affordable, shared accommodation among students and young professionals. Some cities in the UK stand out as prime spots for HMO investments due to their strong economies, large student populations, and ongoing urban development. Here, we explore the […]
A figure of an aeroplane flying over a world map.

How to manage your UK rental property from abroad

17-05-2024

Managing your UK rental property from abroad can be very lucrative for your property portfolio, providing you with a steady stream of income on a monthly basis even in your absence. However, managing your UK rental property from abroad can also pose unique challenges, from dealing with time zone differences to handling maintenance issues remotely, and […]
An aerial view of a person opening a gift box.

What is a tenant welcome pack and what to include

09-05-2024

Moving into a new rental property is an exciting yet daunting process for many tenants. It involves not only a change of environment but also the challenge of settling into a new community and understanding the nuances of their new home. This is where a tenant welcome pack can make a significant difference.  A well-constructed […]
A magnifying glass with a checklist and a model of a house

A landlord's guide to property inventory

26-03-2024

As a landlord, one of the most crucial steps you can take to protect your property and foster a positive relationship with your tenants is to create a comprehensive property inventory.  This detailed document not only serves as a safety net in case of disputes but also sets clear expectations for the condition of the […]
A figure of a house and coins balancing on a wooden plank

Effective ways to market your rental property

19-03-2024

It is safe to say that marketing is crucial for successfully renting out your property. With the exponential spike in social media over the past decade, you can now utilise creative marketing strategies to add value to your property and to get the right tenants for your investment.  Standing out from the crowd is crucial […]
A happy student tenant wearing headphones and working on her laptop.

How much rent should I charge student tenants?

19-03-2024

If you’re a property owner or landlord considering renting out to the student market, you’re on the brink of tapping into a vibrant and consistent rental demographic. You may not, however, know how much to charge these potential student tenants. How much rent is a fair amount?  It’s a delicate balance between ensuring your investment […]

How to attract quality student tenants

16-02-2024

Ah, the student tenant market! It’s vibrant, ever-renewing, and brimming with potential. Whether you’re a seasoned landlord or thinking about entering into the world of student rentals, attracting quality student tenants is key to a successful and stress-free investment. Students are looking for convenience, affordability, and a conducive environment for both study and socialising. They […]
Young professional tenants signing a contract.

How to attract young professional tenants

12-02-2024

If you are a first-time landlord, it is wise to figure out the type of demographic that you want to target with your rentals. In the vibrant world of property rentals, young professionals represent a coveted demographic, so it’s no wonder you may be looking to attract them. Known for their zest for life, desire […]
A commercial property looking from the bottom up.

How to Buy a Commercial Property with Sitting Tenants

02-02-2024

Investing in commercial property can be a lucrative venture, and acquiring a property with established occupants can offer immediate income and result in reduced vacancy risks. However, navigating this territory requires careful consideration and a clear understanding of the process involved. Here, we take a look at what buying a commercial property with sitting tenants […]
Sunset on an alley of office buildings.

Selling commercial property with sitting tenants

29-01-2024

As a landlord in the UK, you might find yourself in a situation where you need to sell a property that currently holds tenants. This scenario can raise several questions and concerns, particularly regarding the impact on property value and the legalities involved.  Here we aim to provide clarity and guidance for landlords selling commercial […]
Block of flats.

How to convert a property to an HMO

15-01-2024

In the dynamic world of property investment, converting a property into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) presents a lucrative opportunity for landlords. The concept of HMOs isn’t new, but its popularity among investors has soared due to the potential for higher rental yields and a more diversified tenant base. This comprehensive guide aims to […]
Image of a landlord speaking with tenants.

Renting to young professionals

18-12-2023

The term ‘young professionals’ usually refers to adults aged 18-30, or university graduates now in the workplace. But why do landlords become involved with renting to young professionals ahead of student tenants, for instance? Here, we at CIA Landlords explore the matter of landlords renting to young professionals in the private sector.  Reliability Times are […]
Image of tenants securing a tenancy agreement.

How much notice does a commercial landlord have to give?

18-12-2023

Commercial landlords must give tenants at least three months’ notice before the original lease term expires. When a fixed-tenancy end date has already passed and a tenant is paying their rent in full and using the premises for business reasons, they will have the right to remain in the property until the landlord provides them […]

Can you evict a tenant for smoking?

02-11-2023

In the UK in 2022, there were 6.4 million adult smokers, 11.2% of women and 14.6% of men. With this in mind, it’s likely that you may have tenants who smoke at some point or another. Sure, smoking may impact the tenant’s general health. But smoking is also bad for the condition of your property […]
Image of an unoccupied property.

Can I Insure an Unoccupied Property?

13-10-2023

Yes, you can and should take out unoccupied property insurance as a landlord. Comprehensive landlord insurance coverage isn’t just a matter of protecting your property during occupancy and when tenants are living there. You also need insurance for times of the year when the place is left empty. For example, student academic terms often mean […]
Image of student tenants together in a bedroom at home.

Landlord Insurance for Student Lets | Everything you need to know

13-10-2023

Student rental properties can be a lucrative investment opportunity for landlords, whether you own one or you are a multi-property landlord with a larger portfolio. After all, having fun living at university-provided or private sector ‘halls’, many students in the UK opt to rent residential properties on the private market from private landlords. In the […]
Image of students laughing together in a library room.

Things HMO landlords need to know

21-09-2023

HMOs, houses in multiple occupation, are a common type of rental property. The UK government states that a rental property is considered to be a house in multiple occupation if a minimum of three tenants live there, forming two or more households, and toilet, bathroom or kitchen facilities are shared with other tenants. Examples of HMO properties […]

Renting to Relatives

12-08-2023

Renting to relatives might seem like a great idea. You don’t have to worry about the lengthy process of finding and screening prospective tenants and you know you’re almost guaranteed a positive landlord-tenant relationship with good communication. That being said, you’re still running a business. Landlords who choose to rent to family quite often decide […]

Is Renting to DSS Tenants a Good Idea?

22-07-2023

Department of Social Services tenants, otherwise known as DSS tenants, are those who claim housing benefits due to financial difficulties relating to unemployment, disabilities and/or being a single parent. Many landlords are understandably reluctant to rent to this group of people. The uncertainty of rent payments, combined with the complications of the benefits system and the […]
Image of an excited female student jumping in the air.

How can I make my rental property suitable for students? 

04-07-2023

Student neighbourhoods tend to be found in urban areas where properties are a bit more affordably priced. HMO student rental properties can also offer landlords some of the highest rental yields. So, it is not surprising that as much as 11% of private landlords in the UK in 2021 let to students.   At CIA Landlords, […]
model house with key

What rights do long-term tenants have?

25-05-2023

Ultimately, you’d be right in thinking that long-term tenants have similar rights to short-term tenants. If your tenants have signed an assured shorthold tenancy agreement and are paying on time as well as adhering to the guidelines stipulated in the agreement, they have the same rights as short-term tenants. What is a long-term tenant? To […]
Image of a model house.

How long can a tenant leave a property empty?

25-05-2023

Picture this; your tenants have left your property, the neighbours haven’t seen them and they’ve left a heap of financial arrears. Let’s look at how long a tenant can leave a property empty before it is classed as abandoned.  Shockingly, even though you’ve got your tenants to sign a tight Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreement, your […]
Family in rented house

How to find the best tenants

05-05-2023

As a private landlord, there are many factors you need to consider before you begin your search for a new tenant for your property. Most importantly, you need to be considering how to attract tenants who will pay the rent on time and be respectful towards the property.    Whilst there is no black-and-white answer […]
Landlord and tenant sit down and talk together

How to deal with tenants who pay rent with benefits

16-03-2023

There’s a grey area over how to deal with tenants who pay rent with benefits.  While you’re looking to make the right choice with your tenants through a thorough screening process and right-to-rent checks, you will also want to understand what DSS really means to your rental property income.  What is a DSS tenant?  A […]
Property occupants with keys

How much notice does a landlord have to give a tenant to move out UK?

16-03-2023

How much notice does a landlord have to give a tenant to move out? This is a great question. With goalposts constantly changing for landlords, we’re curious to see how much notice landlords must give tenants in the UK. It’s also worth noting that not all tenancy agreements are the same. There are a variety […]
Landlord takes acton against tenant

What can I do if my tenant abandons the property?

15-02-2023

When landlords ask ‘What can I do if my tenant abandons the property?’, we can hear the angst in the tone.    It’s been a rocky time for landlords in the last year with the rough economy disabling the tenant market as well as harsh weather conditions causing maintenance issues. Many landlords have found that […]
Home of multiple occupancy. Man in blue t shirt moves boxes

Do I need an HMO licence for 4 tenants?

15-02-2023

Your rental property might be bringing in bountiful profit but does your HMO need a licence?    You might have landed on a sweet spot location for students or even found the ideal borough in London that has reliable tenants. However, you may have overlooked when the right time is to get your HMO licence. […]
Landlord is working from laptop

The ultimate guide to renting to students

05-01-2023

Renting to students can be incredibly profitable. There were a staggering 2.66 million students in UK higher education institutions in the academic year 2020/21. With this in mind, student landlords will rarely experience a shortage of people making inquiries and registering their interest in renting your property! On the other hand, renting to students comes […]

Buying a house with tenants

08-11-2022

Buying a house with tenants in situ is not unusual. Tenanted properties can be quite appealing to an experienced landlord as they are usually cheaper, offer rental income from day one, and save you the headache of looking for new tenants. That said, buying a house with tenants in situ is not as straightforward as […]

Do students have to pay a deposit for rented property?

20-09-2022

Your new student tenants might not be up to speed on rental property deposits but you 100% should be. With the potential risk of heavy partying and the general inexperience of living away from home, we want you to feel your property is protected before you hand over the keys. Have you been seeing terms like ‘holding deposit’ and […]

Can landlords refuse to rent to students?

30-08-2022

Thinking of renting to students? Student rentals are in constant high demand. They offer the potential for high rental yields. Many insurers offer increased protection when renting to students. Sounds like every landlord’s dream, right? Well, sure – if you can put up with the equal potential for anti-social behaviour, lack of consistent income and […]

How to rent a room to a student

17-08-2022

Year by year, record numbers of students are attending university or some form of higher education. This, in turn, creates an unimaginable demand for accommodation. For landlords, this is great news. Students often require longer rental periods, and such high demand ensures your property won’t remain empty when a lease ends. But renting to students comes […]

Do students have to pay council tax in rented property?

18-07-2022

Broadly speaking, students who are in full-time education at a college or university in England, Scotland or Wales will not have to pay Council Tax when living in rented property. However, it can be a confusing matter, and there are certain important factors to consider. So, do students have to pay council tax in rented […]

How to become a student landlord

27-04-2022

If your property is located in a university town or city, it makes sense to market it to students. In fact, due to the rise in student enrolment, revenue for student lets is expected to increase at a compound annual rate of 0.4%. So, why not maximise the earning potential of your property? Read on for […]

Renting to disabled tenants

02-02-2022

There are 400,000 wheelchair users in England alone living in unsuitable accommodation. This is especially true for private rentals. Despite the number of disabled people increasing to 14.1m in 2020, 93% of 8.5 million rental properties in the UK are found to be inaccessible. This leaves a need for more accessible rental properties across the UK. Not […]

Tenants on Universal Credit

04-03-2021

Universal Credit was introduced back in 2013 in an attempt to simplify the welfare system. It has not been without its challenges, and as of January 2021, there were 6 million people on Universal Credit in England, Scotland and Wales. This is a 98% increase since March 2020, largely as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. Whether […]

Renting to Students

22-07-2020

Renting to students is quite different to renting to your standard tenants, but opening up your rental property to this particular demographic can be really profitable. For as long as there are universities and colleges, there will be many students looking for somewhere to live. Like everything and with every demographic of tenant, they come […]

What to do When Your Tenants Breakup

20-12-2019

Your tenants parting ways isn’t just a potentially stressful and emotional moment for your tenants themselves – it could also present a fair few headaches for you as a landlord. There is a wide range of scenarios that can apply, and therefore a wide range of solutions that you could turn to in the event […]

Top 5 Types of Property Occupants Infographic

22-11-2018

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.

Property Occupants Jargon Buster

22-11-2018

Property occupant issues come in many different shapes and sizes. You’ll be lucky to get through your tenancies without coming across at least one or two, so make sure you know your stuff when you’re handling and solving them. Our property occupant jargon buster is here to help! Occupants A person, or the people, who […]

Property Occupant Issues in Rental Property

22-11-2018

Issues with tenants are certainly not uncommon and pretty much any landlord can find themselves faced with them at some point or another. You can screen your tenants and not leave a stone unturned, but this won’t stop the potential of being hit with tricky situations during the tenancy. From students to secret subletters, there’s […]
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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