The Wharf: Home Front – September 25, 2008

Q. I have just completed on a house I bought for investment and have kept the existing tenants. Under the new TDS (Tenancy Deposit Scheme) regulations I am aware that I have 14 days to register the deposit, however the original AST (Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement) of course is not in my name which will cause me problems when trying to register, are you able to advise me of the best solution to this problem?

A. Firstly, for the record – with your name now on the deeds as the legal owner of the property the terms of the original existing tenancy agreement automatically transfers to you as the new Landlord. The best solution to this issue of your name not being present on the original AST is to draw up a brand new tenancy agreement, but it must be an exact replica of the original contract signed by the tenants initially.

Therefore, you must adhere to the same terms and conditions as laid out in the original agreement. Of course by issuing a new agreement it will automatically provide the tenants with a minimum of 6 months occupation, which I assume you would be happy with anyway having bought for investment?

“I have known Dawn in a professional capacity for a very long time, as we used to work together for a number of years. She has a comprehensive knowledge of the Docklands real estate market, but this is not her strongest point. What makes Dawn stand out as an agent is the effort she puts into every deal, the relationships she builds with everyone and the passion she has for what she does. Dawn and Gabriella have been managing my investment property for more than 3 years. I now live overseas and I feel so comfortable knowing they are really looking after my interest, whilst at the same time always being fair and transparent with the tenants. Nothing is big enough job for those ladies and everytime I say ‘thank you – I am so grateful for what you do’, the reply is ‘It’s my job’. I really cannot recommend this wonderful team enough!”

Daniela WeatherillOverseas Landlord

“We are incredibly happy with the service that Dawn Sandoval Residential provide. They offer a personal but very professional service, and we feel secure and confident with their management which is key when letting out a property.”

Amy Facey

“Dawn Sandoval Residential and associates have managed several transactions on our behalf, and each time they have gone above and beyond our expectations. We trust the team highly, and I honestly couldn’t recommend them enough.”

Neil Chinniah

“The Dawn Sandoval Residential team took the time to properly understand what I was looking for. At every stage of the process, I knew they were doing their best for me and valued me as a customer. I have no hesitation in recommending their services in the highest possible terms.”

Andrew Simmonds – Management Consultant

“Dawn Sandoval Residential offer a real personal service. Their response rates are excellent, and we have a sense that they care about our tenants and properties. We cannot recommend them highly enough.”

Cathy & Paul Betts

“Dawn Sandoval Residential have great insights into the property market in London and especially around Canary Wharf. They work very hard to understand their clients’ requirements, and we would highly recommend them.”

David & Ginette Marks