With the coronavirus crisis dominating the headlines, here’s a round up of some property news for landlords that you may have missed.
No easing of gas safety rules
Housing minister Chris Pincher has made clear that landlords should continue to carry out gas safety checks wherever possible during the lockdown.
The response was to a written suggestion from Labour MP Dan Jarvis to extend the certificates for three months during the coronavirus crisis.
“Gas safety inspections save lives extending the period of gas safety inspections at this time could put tenants at risk of serious illness or fatalities from gas explosions or carbon monoxide poisoning,” said the minister.
“Landlords should make every effort to abide by statutory gas safety obligations. However, we recognise that the current restrictions may be making it harder to carry out these checks.
“There are provisions in the regulations for landlords to account for situations in which they cannot carry out inspections, however they must demonstrate they have taken all reasonable steps to comply with the law.”
Fire danger washing machine recall
More Hotpoint and Indesit washing machines sold by Whirlpool are under recall as they offer a potential fire risk, says the firm.
Safety experts have listed 21 models sold between 2014 and 2018 for the recall.
Whirlpool has set up a hotline for worried landlords and tenants who may have the machines installed in their homes.
To find out if a model is subject of the recall, phone 0800 316 1442 or check your model number with the firm’s online tool.
“If your washing machine is being recalled, we will be able to offer you a replacement washing machine of comparable specification provided free-of-charge,” said Whirlpool vice-president Jeff Noel.
In an earlier recall, the company has replaced more than 200,000 faulty washing machines and dryers that presented a fire risk.
Ban on renting homes with poor energy ratings
The government has updated energy efficiency rules to say that from April 1, 2020, landlords cannot continue to rent homes with an Energy Proficiency Certificate (EPC) rating of F or G unless a valid exemption is in place.
