UK Landlord Forum / Life

Hi There,
This is my 1st posting. So...I am an overseas landlord with a 2 bed property in Leeds. The place is fully managed and all is so far so good. I've had it just over a year now and it has been fully let apart from a 2 month period start of the year. As far as I know I AM responsible for any gaps that my tenants do not cover when the property is empty...is that correct? I also understand my property management people handle tenancy agreements and contracts and I assume they make it clear that the tenant is responsible for council tax, Therefore, I am NOT liable if the tenant did not pay.
Does all that make sense? I think I need to contact the council and set something up don't I?
Thanks a lot.

You are responsible for void periods,and it should be written into the contract that the tenants are responsible for council tax and utilities while they still have a lease,whether AST or periodic.I would contact the council and give them your agent's details to act on your behalf,but also add your overseas details or mobile number.They will be very quick off the mark I can assure you when it comes to billing you when the place is empty. You are certainly not responsible if the tenants run up debts for utilities or council tax.This may not stop them trying it on.

Very helpful..thanks a lot.

Quote from: DexterFitBen on March 22, 2021, 09:00:55 AM
Hi There,
This is my 1st posting. So...I am an overseas landlord with a 2 bed property in Leeds. The place is fully managed and all is so far so good. I've had it just over a year now and it has been fully let apart from a 2 month period start of the year. As far as I know I AM responsible for any gaps that my tenants do not cover when the property is empty...is that correct? I also understand my property management people handle tenancy agreements and contracts and I assume they make it clear that the tenant is responsible for council tax, Therefore, I am NOT liable if the tenant did not pay.
Does all that make sense? I think I need to contact the council and set something up don't I?
Thanks a lot.

Hi, you are right.  Your tenant is responsible for all council tax while renting the property and you are for any gaps.  It should be in the tenancy agreement.  Good luck! Angi