NLA launches Tenant Check service

Permalink: NLA launches Tenant Check service
by Gill Montia

The National Landlords’ Association (NLA) has launched a Tenant Check service aimed at helping private landlords make informed decisions about their prospective tenants before granting them a tenancy.

According to NLA research, it can take up to six months to resolve cases in which a tenant fails to pay rent and a landlord can lose thousands of pounds as a result.

The new online service allows landlords to establish if a prospective tenant is using an alias, has multiple addresses or has invented an employer to try and secure a tenancy.

Basic information, which includes details of bankruptcy and county court judgements, is available instantly on-screen while a comprehensive check can be completed within 24 to 36 hours.

Registration is free of charge and the service is “pay as you go”, so there is no monthly fee.

NLA members pay £6 for the basic service and £20 for a full check; for non members, the charges are £10 and £28 respectively.

NLA chairman, David Salusbury, is also reminding landlords of the benefits of insulating their properties.

Steep rises in gas and electricity costs are making well insulated properties attractive to potential tenants.

In addition, Energy Performance Certificates are required for all new tenancies from 1st October.

At the same time, landlords can benefit from an energy saving tax allowance up to a maximum of £1,500 per building.