Landlords of assured shorthold tenancies in England and Wales must protect deposits they receive within 30 days of receipt.

April sees the launch of two brand new custodial schemes where deposits can be protected without the landlord or agent having to pay a fee. The custodial schemes hold an amount equal to the deposit and use interest earned to fund the operation.

As previously reported, landlords must consent to any reasonable request from a tenant to make energy efficient improvements at a private rented home under a new law that came into force on April 1.

Chancellor George Osborne’s tax onslaught aimed at buy to let landlords is leading many to consider moving their property portfolios into companies to save money.

Landlords with tens of thousands of buy to let homes in high risk flood areas may be left marooned by the new Flood Re scheme that started on April 4.