2019 saw a big year of change and this didn’t escape the rental market, amendments in legislation now mean more risks for landlords. The Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act that came into force in March 2019, if landlords are found in breach of this act, then they can be taken to court and even prosecuted. 2020 could see further changes to these legislations so be aware! However, in light of the most recent changes we’ve put together 20 tips for 2020.

The term ‘rogue landlord’ is widely understood in the lettings industry to describe a landlord who knowingly flouts their obligations by renting out unsafe and substandard accommodation to tenants, many of whom may be vulnerable. With today’s fast paced lifestyle and access to social media it’s now easier than ever to get a bad reputation.

Just how much do you think you know about ventilation? Do you know what type of fan an axial fan is? Or how about the abc's of building regulations? We've put together a fun interactive quiz to test your knowledge!

John Moss, Sales Director – Home at EnviroVent, looks at how councils are investing in upgrading their housing stock, not only to provide tenants with affordable warmth, but also better indoor air quality.

When it comes to our homes, we all have preferences; from the wall colour to whether to carpet or use laminate. However, there are certain aspects that no matter what the preference an estate agent can add a price tag on which will add value to your home.

We’d all like to save a bit more money, especially in the current climate with living and energy costs rising, who doesn’t want more for their money? However, this is often much easier said then done whilst we’d all like the ability to be more frugal it does often come much easier to some than others. Nevertheless, when it comes to your home, small changes can actually mean big results and you could get your property more energy efficient.

It is important to maintain a proper humidity level in your home. While too little humidity can cause some discomfort issues such as chapped lips as well as cracks in wooden furniture, the reverse—too much moisture, can make your home a breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can lead to some very serious health issues. Can a dehumidifier maintain the perfect level of humidity?

If you are a landlord you will know this cycle of change well, a tenant moves out and the repair and redecoration work begins, then as quickly as possible a new tenant is in – only for a few months or years down the line they move out and once more the repair work starts again. But is there a way of putting a stop to this cycle of disrepair?

In recent years, changes to the law means a tighter crack-down on tenant living conditions, especially in regards to damp and black mould. As a result, numerous solicitors and legal firms are approaching tenants and advising them they can “sue” their landlords and claim compensation for issues such as condensation and mould.

When Winter closes in and the temperature drops, the vast majority of us want to hibernate – draw the curtains, exclude the draught and have the heating on or better yet the fire. However, this very act of insulating and sealing our homes up can actually be damaging to our health.

There’s never a good time for your boiler to spontaneously combust but winter is especially bad – the weather has turned and we spend a lot more time indoors. That is why it’s best to perform a repair audit on your home in the autumn.

If you don’t know what Zoflora or a hinch basket is then you’ve not been paying attention to social media. The last year or so has seen cleaning and all and any activities associated with interiors as the new hypes, especially with the millennial generation.