Tenancy Law

[briankilb]

What is the period of notice required to be given by a landlord for a routine 'inspection visit' on a property? Can this visit be made in the absence of the tennant?

[gammaray]

There should be a reference to it in your tennancy agreement. If there isn't you could argue that he has no right to make such a visit.

[matchmade]

I've been a landlord for ten years, and I used to rent for six years before that, so I've seen both sides. Every Shorthold Tenancy Agreement I've ever seen has a line saying the landlord must give 24 hours notice, unless it's an emergency, e.g. evidence of a water leak or burglary and the tenant is away. I've also asked the National Landlords' Association Helpline and they say the tenant is entitled by law to "undisturbed privacy and enjoyment of the property", which is designed to stop harassment, daily visits and the like; equally by law the tenant cannot prevent the landlord from gaining access if he or she gives you adequate notice. There's nothing in law about only inspecting every six months - no self-respecting landlord would leave it that long. After all, it's their property and they should have every right to check it's being looked after properly.

There is nothing in law about the visit having to be accompanied - it's impractical for one thing, and only encourages a culture of suspicion. If you really have concerns about your property when your landlord is visiting, lock things away, or consider moving: in my experience it's never worth staying on if you can't trust each other. Or do you have something to hide?