Landlord Forum 17 November 2008

A landlord event was held on 17th November 2008 and it would appear that an enjoyable and informative morning was had by all.

Ann Marshall explained the role of the Landlord Liaison Service, particularly the free tenant referencing process. The references include both tenancy and anti-social behaviour checks and the service is designed to help landlords make informed decisions when letting their properties. Ann also explained that landlords can access free advice regarding anti-social behaviour by contacting the Landlord Liaison Service. There were some interesting questions asked and Ann is going to look at the possibility of making more use of email in the tenant referencing process following a request from a landlord at the event.

The next presentation was about Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and landlords obligations regarding them. Julian Corbidge explained the legislation around EPCs and the type of information collected to form the property's energy rating. Julian informed landlords that the average cost of an EPC at the moment is £64 (based on national data) and he gave some useful advice on cutting the cost of EPCs especially for landlords who own larger portfolios. Julian's presentation is available under the downloads section below.

The last presentation of the morning was regarding the Council's Anti-Social Behaviour Team by Gary Collins. Gary explained the role of the Anti-Social Behaviour Team and played a DVD showing an instance of anti-social behaviour. Gary explained the powers available to tackle anti-social behaviour such as Acceptable Behaviour Contracts (ABCs), Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (ASBOs) and Criminal Anti-Social Behaviour Orders (CRASBOs). He clarified the roles of the Police and Anti-Social Behaviour Team when dealing with anti-social behaviour and reminded everyone that where there is an immediate danger to persons or property then the Police should be called on 999. Gary gave everyone attending a fob with the Anti-Social Behaviour Hotline Telephone number 01642 607943 which is available 24 hours a day for people to report acts of anti-social behaviour.