Rent arrears are a real concern for a number of landlords across the UK, especially as it can have a significant impact on their ability to pay their mortgage.
Rent arrears have soared in some parts of the UK in recent months, owed in part to the roll-out of Universal Credit, especially in Scotland where a recent report found that two thirds - 65% - of Universal Credit tenants are in arrears, compared to less than a third -32% - for all other tenants.
The problem is particularly acute in Peterhead. Last year, rent arrears in the town accounted for 40% of the total tenancy deposit deductions from rental properties, more than double the Scottish average.
With this in mind, SafeDeposits Scotland is to host a workshop for landlords and letting agents in Peterhead next month to offer free industry-leading training into managing tenancy deposits and disputes.
Delivered by SafeDeposits Scotland’s experts, the workshop will outline what the landlord has to do to protect the deposit and demonstrate how to present evidence if there is a dispute with a tenant.
Part of SafeDeposits’ programme of workshops touring Scotland, the course will be held at the Buchan Braes Hotel on 24th November from 1pm and 4pm.
The average rent claim awarded in Peterhead is £421, which is higher than the Scottish average of £412 and it is thought that this is one of the reasons the town has a higher proportion of deductions coming from rent claims than is the norm elsewhere in the country.
The workshop will be aimed at those who have not received previous training on adjudications and will include the use of real case studies of adjudication cases SafeDeposits Scotland has dealt with.
In addition, information on how an adjudicator comes to a decision regarding the amount they decide to reward will be provided.
Victoria Smith, chief operating officer at SafeDeposits Scotland, said: “As well as protecting tenancy deposits, SafeDeposits is committed to providing guidance and raising standards in the private rented sector.
“These courses will help landlords and agents around Peterhead provide a higher quality service to their tenants and better protect their own investments.
“Some landlords and letting agents make errors at the beginning of tenancies which can cause problems at the end of the lease agreement.
“The private rented sector is always evolving, so these courses are a great way to keep up to date with best practice and new legislation.”
To book a free place at the event, email events@safedepositsscotland.com.
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This is the inevitable outcome of the SNP policy of protecting tenants against landlords in all circumstances. The rest of the UK should follow the damage done to the prs in Scotland by these idiots and ensure they don't allow their loony party and charities to repeat this debacle.
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