First Time Landlord - Utilities Query

FT87

Hi there, first timer here!
I've just bought a flat which I intend to put on the rental market (I actually have a friend who is likely going to be my first tenant).
My question is with regards to gas and electricity. Is it my responsibility, as the landlord, to set up a new supplier, or will it be my tenant's? I know I'll have to take meter readings when I get the keys.
Any advice would be appreciated.
FT

danlewi2

Leave it as the current supplier -you are responsible for the bills until you get a new tenant- then they can switch to the provider of their choice.

theartfullodger

Don't rent to friends or family: Or you will fall out with them.


Only rent to people you would be OK to evict, and then pursue for 6 years for any debts.



Join RLA or NLA and do courses on how to be a landlord: It's cheaper (in time & money) than ignorance: I know, when I started I thought I knew what I was doing, made expensive mistakes.... started learning, still learning,

macman

Sorry, but if you don't know this basic procedure, then it is unlikely that you have the knowledge to be a professional LL, which you need to be whether you rent to friends or strangers-the legal requirements (and penalties for non-compliance) are the same.
Deposit protection, gas safety certificate, EPC are just a few subjects that you'll need to comply with.
Do you actually have a BTL mortgage/consent to let from your mortgage provider? If your LA requires it, have you registered the property with them as a LL?
You will need to register with the existing utility suppliers, with whom you will be in a deemed contract with from day one. You can then switch, or leave that to your tenant.

G_M

Have read the sticky?
And links?


** Tenancies in Eng/Wales: Guides for landlords and tenants This thread is intended to provide information to both landlords and tenants relating to Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) in England and Wales.

Topics covered:

* Repairing Obligations: the law, common misconceptions, reporting/enforcing, retaliatory eviction & the new tenant protection (2015)

* Deposits: payment, protection and return

* Ending/renewing an AST: what happens when a fixed term ends? How can a LL or tenant end a tenancy? What is a periodic tenancy?

* Rent increases: when & how can rent be increased?

* Repossession: what if a LL's mortgage lender repossesses the property?

* New landlords: advice, information & links

* Letting agents: how should a landlord select or sack?




And as artful says, think twice (and then again) before letting to a friend unless you are willing to evict them (eg if they lose their job and can't pay th rent). Or are willing to finance their rent yourself.