Blog

As the weather warms up and the beautiful blooms emerge, it's the perfect time to give your living space a fresh update, starting with your wardrobe. Whatever your profession, managing a hectic schedule, a clean and organised closet is essential

HMOs (House of Multiple Occupation) first gained popularity as student accommodations – often basic, shared houses where students could live together at an affordable monthly rent. However, as the law began to focus more on the safety and condition of

While mental health is undoubtedly far less of a taboo subject than 50 years ago, the term ‘Mental Wellbeing’ can still confuse people, so what, exactly, is mental health? Mental health is not an all-or-nothing concept. Rather than something a

Step into 2024 and prepare to turn your HMO into an expression of distinct individuality. This year, the world of interior design is alive with excitement and change, as we move away from cookie-cutter designs and towards originality and personality. Tenants

Are you ready to start the new year in style but finding yourself short on funds? Look no further because Rooms in Kent has an incredible opportunity just for you! Introducing our Big January Move-In Offer, designed to help you

The period between December and January can be challenging when it comes to managing your finances. With all the holiday expenses and potentially longer gaps between paydays, it's important to have strategies in place to make your money stretch further.

When renting out a room in your HMO, the last thing you want to do is fall prey to tenancy fraud. However, it is a real issue, with rising living costs and interest rates putting even more pressure on tenants. While

As the winter season approaches, the risk of damp and mould becomes a pressing concern for both social and private renting housing. It's essential for landlords to understand how to effectively manage these issues and ensure a comfortable living environment

HMO property management in Kent can be a complex and challenging job, especially if you’re a newcomer to the business. There are certainly more regulations and rules for HMO management than for regular buy-to-let properties. Not only that, but having

Unless you have been living under a rock for the last few years you will be aware of climate change, either from the news, your local community or key industry figures such as Greta Thunberg and David Attenborough. Simply put,

When it comes to HMO property management in Kent, one of the most crucial considerations is design. Creating living spaces for your prospective tenants that are functional but appealing too is vital. Creating a comfortable HMO space is essential in influencing

Knowing what to do and when is half the battle to maintain your property. Our comprehensive guide walks you through essential maintenance tasks for every season, ensuring your property is always a covered, whether amidst winter’s chill or summer’s glow.

Most of us have brushed up on our culinary skills during our coronavirus confinement and with the prospect of coming out of furlough or heading back into the office after working from home, wouldn’t it be nice to still keep

At Rooms in Kent, we understand that as a landlord or letting agent, you may often come across the term "fair wear and tear." While it's a common phrase in the rental industry, it can sometimes be challenging to grasp

In light of recent news articles about the prevalence of bed bugs, it's crucial to take proactive steps in safeguarding your home and knowing how to handle bed bug infestations if they ever arise. Whether you're a tenant or a homeowner,

Bed bugs seem to be everywhere in the news lately. Reports claim that these pesky insects have even made their way on the Eurostar from Paris, invading public transport, hospitals, and inevitably, our homes. The thought alone is enough to

The government recently updated the 'How to Rent' guide in October 2023 to include the new Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service, providing tenants with legal advice on housing and possessions. This blog post emphasises the significance of this update for

Inventories play a big role in your tenancy. They can help you avoid conflicts with your landlord or letting agent and hold the key to whether you receive your entire deposit back or just a portion of it when you

In a recent announcement from the government, Prime Minister; Rishi Sunak has now pledged to scrap policies that would force landlords to upgrade energy efficiency in their investment properties by 2025; meaning new tenancies would only be possible on properties

Have you ever had a tenant leave personal belongings behind after moving out? As an HMO landlord, it can be tricky to know how to proceed in such situations. It's important to understand your legal obligations and act accordingly. In

As the weather starts to cool down, we understand that staying warm becomes a top priority for housemates in shared houses. In this blog post, we'll share some tips to help you stay cosy and comfortable throughout the chilly season.

Welcome to the exciting world of owning a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) property in Kent! With an HMO property, you have the opportunity to generate higher rental income by renting out individual rooms to tenants. Creating a positive tenant experience

Are you a HMO landlord in Kent feeling overwhelmed by the ever-changing landscape of property management? In today's world, being an HMO landlord in Kent comes with its fair share of challenges. From new regulations to evolving tenant expectations, it's

Finding the money for a Deposit, be that a traditional deposit or a Deposit Alternative Scheme is no mean feat; it's important to take steps to ensure that you get it back when your tenancy is up. This article will

Are you an HMO landlord looking to maximize the occupancy rates in your property? HMO property management in Kent can be a rewarding investment, but it also requires careful attention to ensure a steady stream of tenants. As a HMO landlord,

HMO management can be a time-consuming and challenging task, so it isn’t surprising that an increasing number of landlords are now looking for a trusted HMO property management company in Kent to take over the running of their investment. When it

If you’re renting for the first time, the process can be intimidating and full of uncertainties. We understand how overwhelming it can be, so we’ve created a step-by-step guide to make it easier for you.   This guide is designed for

If you’re a new landlord, it can be easy to get overwhelmed by the enormity of the situation. What, at face value, seems to be a relatively straightforward transaction between two parties - you and your tenant - quickly morphs

You may have noticed that we've got a new look. We've refreshed our logo and branding, updated our website and social media accounts, and made some other changes to make it easier for you to find what you need when

The annual event provides an opportunity for members of the LGBTQ+ community and their allies to celebrate their identities and accomplishments and reflect on the struggle for equality. So, just when is Pride Month this year, and why is it observed? Here

Who Is Responsible For Pest Control Eradication In HMO Rentals? As a HMO landlord in Kent you’ve likely got a lot to deal with. So, if your tenants experience a pest infestation, it can be tempting to let them resolve the

The Renters' Reform Bill is expected to be "the biggest shake-up of the private rented sector in a generation", according to the government. The measure has the potential to alter the rental sector, with significant implications for landlords and tenants.

Moving day is quickly approaching, and you want to make sure your landlord has no excuse to keep your deposit. However, the prospect of having everything spotless fills you with dread. As with most things in life, having a system helps

Some HMO landlords in Kent believe that increasing numbers of properties are now being disaggregated to allow councils to raise more money in tax. If disaggregation occurs, tenants in HMOs must pay council tax individually instead of you paying it

Over the past few years, there has been a change in HMO tenants’ expectations and many young professionals are seeking out HMOs in Kent that have a high standard of amenities, with ensuite bathrooms high on their list of priorities! We

Moving to a new town can be stressful for a variety of reasons. There's the stress of finding a place to live in an unfamiliar area, moving your belongings in, and adjusting to a new job, commute, and lifestyle

If you’re a HMO landlord in Kent ready to sell your property, you may wonder whether you can transfer your existing HMO licence to its next owner. Alternatively, you may be considering taking over an existing HMO in Kent and be

If you’re a HMO landlord in Kent, you may have heard recent news reports that tenants are increasingly seeking properties to rent that have all-inclusive bills. With that in mind, you may be wondering; should I include bills in my HMO

This month marks World Sleep Day, so what better time to share advice on getting a good night's sleep? Whether it's struggling to fall asleep or waking up at 4 a.m. and tossing and turning until your alarm goes off, we've

Whether you’re an existing HMO landlord or are keen to invest in a house of multiple occupation in Kent, you need to be sure you’ve chosen the right property for your project. Select well and you’ll have a great investment! But

Landlords Guide To Making Tax Digital (MTD): All You Need To Know Making Tax Digital for Income Tax Self Assessment (MTD for ITSA) comes into effect on April 6th, 2024. MTD is part of the government's 10-year plan to modernise the tax

As a HMO landlord in Kent how often are you carrying out inspections on your properties? If you’re managing a large portfolio, your answer might be, “not often enough.” Yet regular property health checks are crucial for maximising your long-term

It's Library Lovers Month—and it appears to have arrived just in time, as many local libraries are struggling during the cost of living crisis. So, why do you adore your local library? Libraries provide a safe haven away from the

The government adopted the Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022 in reaction to the Grenfell Tower disaster, establishing additional obligations for some landlords. The intention of this legislation is to reduce the risk of death or injury from fire.   Who do the regulations

The roof is one of those parts of the house that can frighten its owners just by saying its name. Understandable, given how important our roofs are

When all the buzz surrounding the holidays has died down, the post-Christmas period can be a deflating and lonely time. The decorations are put away, and the Christmas tree is eventually discarded. You may be feeling empty and lonely. There is

Housemates will be celebrating together during the festive season, whether it's (attempting) to cook a festive meal or going down to the local to celebrate finishing work for the year! Another thing you could do as a flatshare on one

If you’re an HMO landlord, you must be aware of the UK government’s space standards, even if your property doesn’t require a license. Space standards have been established to ensure HMO tenants can enjoy sufficient comfortable living space when residing in

Over the past few years HMO landlords in England have seen an increase in demand for high-end properties that offer better features and amenities. Professional tenants today have greater expectations than ever before and are keen to get maximum value for

For various reasons, a rising number of people are opting to rent a bills-inclusive room rather than own or let a whole property in Kent. Because of the increase in renters, making the market more competitive, passing tenant referencing swiftly

If you’re ready to build a highly successful HMO business in Kent you need to know what to prioritise and may be asking, ‘how do I get the most from my HMO?’ With so much to think about and do as

As a tenant, keeping your deposit safe is critical. Deposit these days are 5 weeks worth of rent, so ensuring that you get every penny back is certainly in your best interest. The issue is that you'll also want to make

Are you an HMO landlord in Kent and finding yourself in a challenging position right now? The cost of living is on the rise, inflation is skyrocketing, and running your property portfolio is becoming more costly all the time.  So, it isn’t

A Legionella risk assessment is an essential part of being a landlord, but it receives far less attention than many of the other legal requirements and responsibilities that landlords face. The wording of the legislation governing Legionella testing has also caught

Keeping investment properties in excellent condition should be high on the priority list for landlords. Maintenance can be expensive, so finding a happy medium between cutting costs and keeping your property in good condition can be difficult. Landlords who know how

There are several reasons why a tenant might need a guarantor, and the request can be made by either the landlord or the letting agent handling the tenancy. If you've been asked to provide a guarantor or to be one but

If you are a private landlord with several tenants living in one property, you may own a House of Multiple Occupation (HMO). If this is the case, you must apply for an HMO licence through the local authority where your property

Although it may appear to be self-explanatory at first glance, behaving in a tenant-like manner could really mean anything and would thus be open to interpretation in the absence of solid guidelines. Thankfully, these guidelines exist, and in this post,

According to a recent Gas Safe Register study, one in every four homes in the UK has a potentially dangerous gas appliance, with the potential for life-threatening consequences such as carbon monoxide poisoning, gas leaks, fires, and explosions. Landlords and

Many coaches, mentors, and classrooms will tell aspiring HMO investors to “STAY OUT OF ARTICLE 4 AREAS!” But, in reality, things aren’t so black and white. But what exactly is an Article 4? What is an Article 4? In layman’s terms, Article

Let's face it, neither we nor our homes in the UK are built to withstand the heat. So, keeping a bedroom cool and getting a decent night's sleep can be difficult. With temperatures anticipated to soar into the 30s this

Taking on a new tenant can be a stressful experience. You want to make sure you rent to the best possible candidate, but you’re also aware of the age-old adage “time is money,” which can make landlords want to rush

The private rented sector, particularly the HMO market, has seen increased demand, resulting in rising rents. Simultaneously, landlords are experiencing a decrease in void periods, which assists investors in minimising the time that rooms sit empty. In this blog, we’ll discuss

Whether you’ve already invested in a HMO in England or whether you’re considering taking the plunge, you’re sure to want to make a success of your investment. Managing a HMO can be complex and finding ways to ensure your property business

Did you know that if you are a HMO landlord in England who is running an assured shorthold tenancy, you must register the tenants’ deposits in one of the government-backed protection schemes? Three of these schemes exist, each one offering different

For many property investors, the idea of renting out an HMO in Kent is an appealing one. After all, an HMO can typically bring in a higher rate every month than a single let property. However, HMOs present their fair

If you’re an HMO landlord you’re probably aware of the problems that void periods can cause. Although all landlords experience voids from time to time, there are several things you can do to minimise your chances of suffering from extended

GDPR, or General Data Protection Regulation, to give it its full name, applies to how consumers’ personal data is processed and collected.  Essentially, anybody holding or processing personal data must be compliant with GDPR legislation, and that includes HMO landlords in

As an HMO landlord, you’re no doubt very aware of your legal obligations. However, as the law is always changing and the regulations are constantly being updated, it can be difficult to stay on top of legal requirements.  Although maintaining compliance

When renting out an HMO property, it’s imperative to collect your tenants’ rent payments each month in a timely manner. Unfortunately, this is something that many landlords struggle with.  If your tenants aren’t paying up on time, one solution is of

Unfortunately, from time to time, people experience a dispute of some type with their neighbours. However, as an HMO landlord, problems between your tenants and the people living in the surrounding properties can prove highly problematic.  As a landlord, do you

When looking for a new houseshare, sometimes it feels like room adverts disappear as quickly as they go up, but that doesn't mean you should rush your decision when searching for your next home. Every tenant should have a list

HMOs, or houses of multiple occupation, are tenancies where several tenants from different households live in one property, sharing living facilities like bathrooms, kitchens, and living spaces. HMOs are a popular choice amongst landlords in Kent since they can bring

HMO landlords in Kent often believe there’s no such thing as a perfect tenant. In fact, one of the most challenging things about renting an HMO property is sourcing suitable tenants! To maximise your ROI, you need to ensure you’ve found tenants

We have all been there; you walk into a room and think, 'what is that smell!?'. Whether it's the old gym trainers you have stored in your wardrobe or the 'stale air' lingering around the atmosphere from working at home

Heating is always a PRICKLY issue in a house share. What one housemate considers FREEZING COLD, another would call ROOM TEMPERATURE. If you do feel the cold, here's some TOP TIPS

Did you know that around 60% of the UK has hard water? The South and East of England have the hardest water in the UK. Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium salts which form an essential part

Your safety is paramount, so here is how we are maintaining Covid-19 guidance on our viewings

Working from home can be challenging, especially for people who aren’t used to working remotely. But with the right work from home tips, tools and mindset you can make it work. We’ve put together a list of tips to make

Was it one of your New Year’s resolutions to declutter and get more organised? Now that the clocks have gone forward and the sun is streaming through the windows, are you starting to notice your stack of hibernation supplies piling

Turning your room into your very own jungle isn't just a trend - it is a great way to create a calm & relaxing oasis for sleeping in. Plants not only filter toxins from the air, some plants also release

One of the most contentious subjects in any house share is the dreaded ‘housework’. There’s no question that since we have been providing house shares, we have encountered a lot of different types of housemates, and sometimes, that can make