Thanks for answers

sourpuss2021

Thanks for answers

diego_94

Your problem was that you have paid out already and have set a precedence. the landlord now probably assumes you will do it again. You should not of paid out for any repairs yourself.

People more qualified than me will come along but I suspect you've shot yourself in the foot by being helpful.

martindow

My worry would be that I might sink money into the LL's house only for him to end the lease and sell his much improved building.  Your 'investment' would be to his benefit.

Does the bathroom really need £9.5k spent on it?  I am sure that would provide an excellent bathroom, but I would think a much more modest sum could make a big difference to what is currently there.

SusieT

Why not get an agreement with the owner, that when he sells you will be reinbursed with the capital amounts you have paid out to improve the flats? That way if in the future the property is sold then long long term you do not lose out, and he does not have to pay for or arrange things like this

MobileSaver

sourpuss2021 said:

martindow said:

My worry would be that I might sink money into the LL's house only for him to end the lease and sell his much improved building.  Your 'investment' would be to his benefit.

Does the bathroom really need £9.5k spent on it?  I am sure that would provide an excellent bathroom, but I would think a much more modest sum could make a big difference to what is currently there.

That’s definitely a risk, though I think him bumping up my rent is more likely.  He would face a large six figure capital gains tax bill (at 28%) if he ever sold.

He may face a large six figure tax bill if he sells but that still means he'd make double that six figure amount in profit! That may be very tempting to some people so, as has been said, tread carefully.

It's surprising that you are essentially living rent free but still haven't built up any savings so doubly risky that you would have to borrow to pay for the work needed.

If you can't get a written agreement beforehand that the landlord would reimburse you if he sells up within say 3 years then I'd let sleeping dogs lie for now unless the condition is so bad that it may be considered ’unfit for human habitation’ under the Homes Act 2018.

If the latter then you could be forced by a court to pay for repairs and pay compensation to the tenant in which case you do need to take urgent action one way or the other.

theartfullodger

sourpuss2021 said:

I rent a whole house from a “old school” landlord (also the freeholder) which is divided into three flats. I live in one flat with a lodger and sublet the other two to subtenants.  This situation has developed over the past 12 years.  It is all on the basis of verbal agreement and negotiation...................

....

So you have an AST with your landlord:  But as everything not on paper your landlord almost likely will be unable, currently, to evict you... due to any s21 being invalid.

see amongst other sources e.g.

https://nearlylegal.co.uk/section-21-flowchart/

You are reporting ALL the rent you receive from two flat rentals & lodger please??