Landlord Information

News and information for landlords of private rented properties in Thanet, East Kent

Selective Licensing Scheme

This scheme has now been introduced in parts of Cliftonville and Margate town centre after local consultation.  From April 2011, landlords will need a Licence to rent out property in the designated area. 

• Apply for a licence now

Kent Landlord Accreditation Scheme (KLAS)

Thanet council is a member of the Kent Landlord Accreditation Scheme (KLAS).  The Scheme recognises good landlords, and since the scheme was launched over 100 landlords who manage properties in the district have become members.  For information about the scheme and how to join, visit www.londonlandlords.org.uk/portal/index/

Official Accreditation Training Courses are available in London and the south east.  Courses are held locally at The Kent Innovation Centre, off Northwood Road, Broadstairs, CT10 2QQ.  View available courses and book on line now.  For more details, contact the council's Housing Regeneration Team 01843 577454.

As an accredited landlord there is a discount available on Selective Licensing fees. 

Thanet Landlords Focus Group

This Group has been running since 2008 when it was set up as the Landlord Board.  It works with Thanet Council to hold the Landlord Events here twice a year.

The Focus Group is made up of landlords and agents who own or manage properties in Thanet.

Through the Group, landlords and agents are able to put forward a landlord perspective on Council initiatives and put forward ideas for the Landlord Event.  The Group also provides a forum for consultation and offers landlords the opportunity to make suggestions on how the council can improve services to them.      

If you would like to register your interest in joining in a Landlord Board, then please contact the Housing Regeneration Team at the council on 01843 577437, e-mail housing.conditions@thanet.gov.uk

Next Landlord Event Spring 2012

Benefits Information

• Find information relating to Local Housing Allowance (Housing Benefit). 
• The Directgov web site provides more information about the Local Housing Allowance.

Housing Association Letting Scheme (HALS)

If you have property in Thanet for private rent, and you are looking for a management company, you could consider Avenue Lettings' scheme.

Avenue is part of the Amicus Horizon Housing Association and is working in partnership with Thanet District Council. It can offer full management services and a guaranteed monthly rent (this means you are paid rent even when the property is empty).  It also offers a 24 hour repairs service, and has a direct agreement with the tenant so it can deal directly with then on all tenancy matters.   In addition, it offers the following benefits to the landlord:

• Long term lease
• Rent guaranteed and paid directly to you monthly
• Guarantee against tenant damage
• Free professional management service
• Buildings insurance at a reduced premium
• Guaranteed vacant possession
• Free Inventory and Property Condition Report
• Regular property inspections
• A hassle free lettings service for the landlord!

You can arrange a free, no obligation property visit.  Contact the Amicus Business Development Team:

Landlords’ Fire Risk Assessments

Under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, landlords must ensure that fire risk assessments are carried out and are current on all properties that contain common areas such as stairs, hallways and landings.  For more information, read the leaflet 'A short guide to making your premises safe from fire' on the Communities and Local Government web site.

The Housing Act 2004

Housing Act 2004 - landlords guide PDF (292kb)

Housing Regeneration Team

E-mail:

housing.conditions
@thanet.gov.uk

Tel: 01843 577437