>Where Landlords in Cardiff Stand When It Comes to

In this three-minute read, we look at the latest news on the evictions front and the moves needed to avoid legal action.

It takes flexibility, compassion, and stamina to navigate the eviction process at the best of times. But, due to Covid-19, it takes more careful and considered steps than ever to repossess a property.

Just last week, the Welsh Government extended the period of notice on evictions from three months to six months.

The new rule came into effect on July 24 and applies to notices of eviction issued until the end of September. Cases of anti-social behaviour are excluded.

For landlords embroiled in long-running disputes, this move places an ever-greater burden on their shoulders.

What Action Landlords Can Take

These changes will only exacerbate the existing backlog of cases. The housing charity Shelter estimates there could be as many as 200,000 in the pipeline.

Landlords in Cardiff can avoid getting caught up in this legal nightmare, by treating eviction as the absolute last resort. Here are some tips to navigate your way through tricky situations and to hopefully avoid court action.

  • As they say, it takes two to tango. Don’t sit back and wait to hear from your tenant. You, or your letting agent, need to stay in regular contact with your tenant. That way, if they hit hard times, you can respond quickly.
  • If a tenant is struggling to pay their rent, don’t press the panic button. There are several strategies you can pursue, from rent reductions to flexible payment plans. Before you negotiate one of these options, please seek advice from us.
  • It’s easy to feel emotional or stressed when difficulties arise, but you need to remain cool-headed and pragmatic. What you do at the early stages of a dispute can be critical to recouping rental funds and determine the nature of the relationship in the future.
  • And of course, keep a record of all conversations and text and email exchanges.

These steps are the basics of managing tenancies during the Covid-19 crisis.

If you don’t feel qualified or comfortable doing all this yourself, we’re lettings experts and we can do it for you. We can take the lead, lighten the load, and make your life a lot easier.

For more advice about managing your property during Covid-19, contact us here at Harry Harper Sales & Lettings.

We’re here to help guide you through these difficult times.

NOT READY TO SELL YET?

Not quite ready for a Valuation? Try out our free instant online valuation tool! It takes 30 seconds. Or subscribe to our top tips on selling property for the best price.

Free Instant Valuation Top Sellers Advice