CIA Landlords

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.
A spiral bound notebook on a desk with "interview tips" written on the front

How to interview a tenant

12-05-2025

A well-structured, fair and legally compliant interview process is essential for landlords to find reliable tenants to live in their rental property. Therefore, knowing how to interview a tenant is an important skill for a landlord. Interviewing prospective tenants can be challenging, so this comprehensive guide will detail how to interview a tenant. We will […]
Writing a tenant’s verification of employment letter

Gaining a tenant’s verification of employment

21-03-2025

Gaining a tenant’s verification of employment is a crucial step before the tenancy agreement commences. Carrying out employment verification can make such a difference to a landlord’s life. It can reduce concerns about rental income, prevent the need for problem-solving, and alleviate stress later down the line. It’s not always possible to reduce every single […]
A person holding a pen and making notes

How long does tenant screening take?

21-03-2025

Tenant screening is a critical step for landlords when looking for new tenants. A rigorous tenant screening process can make such a difference to a landlord as it can lead to less worrying, less problem-solving and fewer headaches. But the screening process contains quite a few steps, so you might be wondering how long does […]
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.  […]
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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
A man holding a figure of a house in each hand.

Advice for accidental landlords

10-05-2024

Becoming a landlord often involves meticulous planning and making a deliberate decision to enter the property rental market. But sometimes, circumstances turn you into an accidental landlord without having any plans in place. You might inherit a property, move for work or personal reasons and decide to rent out your home, or you might invest in […]
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 person viewing a property on a laptop.

The Benefits of Virtual Property Viewings for Landlords

30-04-2024

Virtual property viewings have become increasingly popular since the pandemic. Virtual property viewings help save landlords both time and money through increased efficiency and convenience.  In this article, we explore some of the key benefits of virtual property viewings for landlords. What is a virtual property viewing? A virtual property viewing is simply a way […]
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How to take great rental property photographs

02-04-2024

Excellent photography can catch a potential tenant’s eye and set your property apart from competitors. It is an essential part of marketing your property and ensuring that you attract the perfect tenants. So, grab your camera and pay attention to our tips on how to take great rental property photographs! Why you should take great […]
A picture of a gavel ontop of books with a book titled 'Landlord tenant law' in front of it.

Things landlords can't do

20-02-2024

Navigating the world of property rental in the UK can be both rewarding and challenging. While it’s important to protect your investment, it’s equally crucial to understand the boundaries of your role.  Here, we explore the key things that you, as a landlord, should steer clear of to foster a healthy relationship with your tenants.  […]

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 […]

My Tenant Has Bad References

24-11-2023

Undoubtedly, tenant screening is one of the most important parts of the process when taking on someone new to live in your rented property. Finding the right tenants can be a real challenge and when you get it wrong, it can make your life really difficult. There are no guarantees with any tenant – even […]

What credit checks do landlords use?

02-10-2023

It may seem obvious, but if you’re planning on renting out your property, you must find a good tenant. At the end of the day, your top priority as a landlord is to protect your investment. A full tenant screening process could help you avoid any issues with prospective tenants later down the line. Arguably, […]
Image of man doing sums for tenants with paper and calculator.

The tenant screening process

31-08-2023

Having the right tenants living in your rental property makes all the difference, and hopefully leads to less worrying, less problem-solving and fewer headaches. To land yourself good tenants, a robust tenant screening process is vital. Adequate tenant screening can include doing credit checks (with the written permission of prospective tenants),  retrieving references from previous […]

Tenants With Criminal Records

23-08-2023

Finding out a prospective tenant has a criminal record can be pretty unnerving. Does that mean they are going to damage your property? Use it for illegal activities? Not paying their rent? If you find yourself with a potential client with a criminal conviction, it’s important not to immediately dismiss the idea. Although having a […]

How to Reject a Tenant

14-08-2023

Rejecting prospective tenants during the approval process can be tricky and can have legal implications if you don’t approach it properly and professionally. You must screen tenants to avoid potentially unsuccessful or problematic tenancies, and you’ll usually have to reject at least one unlucky applicant. But what’s the best way to do this, and on […]

What to look out for when screening students

09-08-2023

There are certainly many benefits to renting to students. At the same time, there can be a few drawbacks that may put landlords off. However, if you screen your student tenants properly, you will know what to expect and you should be in for a smooth and stress-free tenancy. Why students? Student housing in university […]
definition of citizen typed

Do UK citizens need to prove right to rent?

11-01-2023

It might feel like a minefield knowing who needs to prove their right to rent and who doesn’t. From Uk citizens to non-UK citizens, you’ll need to know the difference from the very get-go of your screening process.    It doesn’t need to feel complicated. Just follow this handy guide to understand if Uk citizens […]

Right to Rent checks: 2022 changes

28-11-2022

Did you know that there have been changes made to a landlords Right to Rent Checks since the 1st of October? Right to Rent checks which were adjusted over the pandemic period are now being revised, changed and updated. Let’s take a look at what’s changed and how it impacts you as a landlord. What […]

Screening questions for potential tenants

13-07-2022

There is never any absolute guarantee of being able to choose the best tenant for your property, even with the optimal preparations. However, there can also be no doubt about the importance of asking would-be tenants the right questions at the screening stage. The stakes are simply too high for you to be able to […]

Why do landlords need a full tenant screening process?

22-10-2021

It’s safe to say that every landlord wants reliable and respectful tenants. But sometimes it can take a while for the perfect tenant to request a viewing.  And you don’t want to let just anyone move into your property as this could end in disaster. It’s important for landlords to incorporate a thorough tenant background […]

The Renters Reform Bill 2023 and Tenant Rights and Laws

03-12-2020

The Renters Reform Bill of 2023 has had a significant impact on tenant rights and tenant laws, impacting the relationship between landlords and tenants greatly. One of the key areas of reform is tenant rights and laws against discrimination. It is now illegal for landlords to reject a tenant without a valid reason. You should […]

The Tenant Referencing Process

20-11-2020

The tenant referencing process is an important part of screening your tenants and making sure that you find the right person to take on your buy-to-let. Think about it – your buy-to-let is probably one of your most important financial assets. It’s important to take the right steps to protect it as much as possible. […]

Tenants With Bad Credit

20-12-2019

It may seem a strange thing to say, but a prospective tenant failing a credit or reference check doesn’t necessarily mean it would be a bad idea to let your property to them. After all, the longer your property goes unoccupied, the longer you will be going without income from it. Plus, finding a tenant who […]

Top 5 Issues around Screening Process Infographic

07-02-2019

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.

Screening Process Jargon Buster

07-02-2019

Screening your tenants is arguably one of the most vital parts of a tenancy. With the right tenants, you are unlikely to encounter many, if any, issues – but if you choose not to screen them, how do you know what kind of a person you’re handing your investment over to? Be sure to understand […]
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.

More information
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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Home selling secrets

Amina was very helpful in sorting out my landlord’s insurance and spotted an error in my cover which helped reduce my premium.

First time landlords

We are first time landlords and you gave good advice and the process was easy and good value.

A pleasure to deal with

A pleasure to deal with, the lady on the phone was a credit to her company.