Personal legal expenses insurance could help you and your family with a number of legal issues, depending on what cover you have. This site can help you learn about legal expenses insurance, how to get it, and how to use it if you have it.
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Tom Pertaia, Associate at DAS Law, offers guidance on the issues and questions landlords should consider when renting to friends and family.
At this time of year many tenants enter the dreaded and stressful process of flat/house hunting.
As a landlord, you want to make sure that you are renting your property to someone you can trust and who will take good care of your property.
With the property market still very competitive and prime locations at a premium, renters may feel more comfortable renting from family and friends. As a landlord there are definite benefits to renting to someone close to you, but it’s still sensible to do everything by the book.
What are your responsibilities as a landlord when renting to family or friends? Are there any extra precautions you should take into consideration?
If you’re planning to rent to friends or family, you want to check your mortgage terms – some mortgage companies do not allow sub-letting to family or friends.
When renting to friends and family, you need to make sure you have the appropriate insurance in place including Legal Expenses Insurance – it is not unheard of for issues to arise and you may need the specialist support. Also don’t invalidate your insurance – you may feel uncomfortable asking your friends and family for certain documentation, but if you don’t you could invalidate your insurance. Good friends and family should understand that these rules protect them as well. Speak with your primary insurer to understand your obligations and conditions under your proposed or existing policy.
Friends and family should meet the same level of criteria as any other rental agreement. They should also be treated with the same level of respect as any other tenants, for both your and their protection.
Documentation you should have in place include:
Again, friends and family must enjoy the same level of protection as any other tenants. You must do everything by the book:
Your friends and family should appreciate that you are doing things properly.
If you are paying a letting agent to manage your property for you, make sure you discuss this topic with them and get copies for your own records.