Forum Will Offer Free Advice For Local Landlords

As most of you will be aware, on April 1st the coalition government's new legislation on the benefit system will come in to place, affecting millions of people across the nation.

Now, landlords and letting agents in South Somerset are being invited to a free event to find out crucial updates and gain expert advice about changes to legislation and housing benefit.

This year’s Landlord’s Forum, organised by the district council in conjunction with the National Landlords Association, will take place on Thursday 14 April from 6pm to 8pm at the Manor Hotel, Yeovil.

Registrations for the event are now being taken.

Industry experts and council officers will show landlords how they can gain accreditation, give an overview of the changes to Local Housing Allowance, and explain the 1 April 2011 changes to housing benefit that may affect private landlords and their tenants.

The idea is to give landlords the information needed to be responsible property managers in bite-size talks and to offer an opportunity for them to ask questions.

Ian Rigby, Private Sector Tenancy Officer at South Somerset District Council said: “Over 60 landlords and people who were thinking of becoming landlords attended both of last year’s forums.

“There hasn’t been a more important time to work together - with housing benefits changing and the growing demand for private rented accommodation to meet housing need.

“We want to give our local landlords and letting agents all the information they require in order to provide safe homes for residents and this free event will help ensure that they have the tools they need to be good property managers who are aware of the legislation and any changes that may come up.”

Talks will also cover topics such as enforcement action, empty property issues and licensing information.

Places at the free event can be made by e-mailing Lyra.Haldane@landlords.org.uk or telephoning 01273 421048.

Photo: redjar, flickr