As the boom in the residential letting sector continues apace, property investors in Northumberland are being given the chance to consult experts in the field.
The decision by Northumberland County Council to organise an open day for private landlords across the county illustrates the growing importance of the private letting sector in the UK today. The housing shortage is becoming acute in many areas of the UK and in Northumberland the continued paucity of new builds is affecting the region badly.
New landlords received information about all aspects of the profession, from experts in a variety of skills. The National Landlords Association (NLA) and the Residential Landlords Association (RLA) were both represented and gave new landlords an insight into the business, giving them tips on insurance for let property, letting agents and the relationship between landlord and tenant. A spokesman from the Northumberland Fire and Rescue service spoke about health and safety issues around fire and a Customs and Excise officer gave tips on how to arrange VAT reductions and exemptions when renovating empty homes.
Northumberland County Council provided officers from their welfare and benefits section to advise on the implications of the new Welfare reform Bill for tenants and landlords, while another officer explained the issues around the equality and diversity rights of tenants.
Peter Millar, a member of the Northumberland Landlords forum who helped organise the event was delighted with the feedback he received, saying “Those attending seemed to find it extremely useful. The speakers provided information on a wide range of subjects which are all pertinent to landlords in managing and improving their properties. As a steering group we are always keen to hear what else is helpful to them so that we can guide the content of future events.”