SPRING 2020 ROUND-UP Old tenancies, new rules Landlords and letting agents who have tenancy agreements dating from before 1 June 2019 will soon be subject to the Tenant Fees Act 2019. The act was introduced so tenants would know exactly what they were expected to pay and when, and to ensure they would not incur additional costs or hidden charges. ROUND-UP The legislation applied immediately to agreements dated on or after 1 June 2019, but a years grace was given for tenancies agreed before this date. From 1 June 2020, however, these will also have to adhere to the new rules. Under the legislation, you are classed as a landlord even if you rent out only one property, and you need to comply whether you have only one tenant or many. The act created new offences concerning prohibited fees, and consolidated legislation on publication of fees, redress membership, and client money protection. It also brought in a list of permitted payments that a letting agent or landlord can charge tenants, and banned all other payments if they are required. In some instances, tenants can be given an option which they may choose to accept or refuse but they cannot be required to pay prohibited fees. For example, you may offer to keep a holding deposit towards rent, but you cant force a tenant to accept this. Bristol City Council is the lead enforcement authority under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, and in partnership with Powys County Council runs the National Trading Standards Estate and Letting Agency Team. For more about the team and the 2019 act, see our lead feature in this edition of TSBN. Credit: Alison Farrar, National Trading Standards Estate & Letting Agency Team Image: iStock.com / glegorly Guides to fire safety ROUND-UP Whether you own a B&B, operate selfcatering accommodation, or rent out rooms or whole properties via the internet, you must comply with fire-safety legislation. questions and answers section will also help you make an emergency escape plan for your guests, and outlines what you must consider when it comes to escape routes. Guidance documents are available to help businesses understand what is required under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005. All occupants should be able to exit the premises without using a key, for instance, so locks on internal or external doors may need to be modified. For example, Do you have paying guests? details five key steps you should take to complete a fire risk assessment. This will be the basis of everything you must consider and implement to keep your guests safe, and includes the levels of fire detection, emergency lighting and firefighting equipment needed for your premises. Yale-type latches, thumb turns, or similar locking mechanisms provide security while also allowing a quick and easy means of escape. The document which includes a common For more information, contact your local Trading Standards office. Credit: Steve Andrews, West Midlands Fire Service Image: iStock.com / braclark For further information please contact your local Trading Standards Service