The Piccolo Property blog

Looking at their glossy websites, it is easy to see how you can be persuaded. Most of the online agents provide all of the services provided by a traditional agent, but for a fraction of the cost. You can have your property listed...

There is a lot to do and plenty to think about before you rent out your property. First impressions count for everything when it comes to property, so it’s vital your home looks its best for potential tenants. Maintaining this...

A tenant who fails to take proper precautions is likely to be held liable for any damage caused to the property during cold weather. Don’t think it won’t happen to you! Take precautions: Read the small print of your tenancy...

Every letting agent has stories about things that tenants leave behind; some silly, some sad, some revolting. Apparently ‘grown-up toys’ are the number one item left behind by tenants when they move out of a property according...

In his latest annual report, Ombudsman Christopher Hamer said disputes with letting agents rose from 28% to 49% of his workload last year. He predicted that problems over lettings would make up two-thirds of his workload this...

Choosing the right flooring for a rental property is very important. Appearance, longevity, maintenance and cost are all factors that must be considered to help achieve a successful, hassle free let. The colour of the carpets can...

The Property Ombudsman scheme provides a free, fair and independent service for dealing with unresolved disputes between member agents and tenants and landlords of property in the UK. Member agents must follow the Property...

The Government has outlined a package of measures aimed at raising standards in the Private Rented Sector. The package includes: A new housing hotline offering free help and advice for private tenants. A ‘Trip Adviser’ style...

Britain’s housing minister, John Healey, is reportedly planning to introduce new measures which will increase the government’s role in the private buy-to-let sector. The minister noted that he wanted to offer tenants even more...

On Monday 25 January 2010 PainSmith has a case appearing in the High Court which should provide the first binding decision on Tenancy Deposit Protection under the Housing Act 2004. In Draycott v Hannells Lettings Ltd there are two...