The Wharf: Home Front – January 10, 2008

Q. My tenant has not paid his rent for the last 3 months despite my urgent requests to clear the arrears. I am relatively new to the world of property investment and completely unsure what to do next. How does the law stand on this situation and what legally can I do?

A. Non payment of rent is obviously a stressful issue for any landlord. The law requires the tenant to be at least 2 months in arrears before any type of legal proceedings can begin. First course of action is usually in the form of a solicitor’s letter to the tenant giving them 2 weeks to clear the arrears. If the tenant fails to comply, formal legal proceedings can then begin; this can take anything up to 2 months to get to court. The judge will then order the tenants eviction along with the payment of not only the arrears but also the court costs. If the tenant still refuses to comply the last resort is for the court to send in the bailiffs to regain possession on behalf of the landlord. Of course every case is different and should be looked at individually, therefore I would strongly suggest you speak to your solicitor who will provide you with the correct legal advice on your particular situation.

“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