What are my rights?

poppett

I have given notice on my house and the estate agents now have the "To Let" board up outside. I'm just wondering what my rights are regarding them bringing people around to view. Obviously they have to let me know when they are bringing someone as I work and they need access but do I have the right to be in the property while they are showing people around or do I have to make myself scarce?

N79

Technically you do not have to allow any viewings. However, this is a bit extreme and will obviously damage your relationship with the LL.

You have the right to agree times with the LL and to be present if you wish (and of course to say that the time is inconvenient and unacceptable). It might save time all round if you were able to give the LL a few time slots for viewings (eg Wednesday Evening 7-8 and Saturday Morning 10-12 or whatever) at times which are convenient for you. That way the LL can arrange potential viewings easily, you fell no obligation outside these times and hopefully, if you pick times when you would be at home anyway, then there is mininal inconvenience for you.

I always use this method for my properties.

msmicawber

Have you checked your tenancy agreement, poppett? Mine has a clause about allowing viewings at the end of the tenancy. In general though, I believe you should be given 24 hours' notice as with any landlord visit, and it's your choice whether you are present or absent.

prudryden

You must be given 24hrs. written notice as per post above. Appointments should be arranged at your convenience, but you should try to be helpful. It still depends on what your contract states.

N79

prudryden wrote: »

It still depends on what your contract states.

Actually it does not. Most terms in tenancy contracts demanding access for viewings are unenforceable because they conflict with the right to quiet enjoyment. While it is good practice to lay out the procedure for viewings in a tenancy agreement T is under no obligation to allow access based on such an agreement clause.

That said, any reasonable term in the agreement is a good starting point as both parties have agreed it as an intention.