Private renters staying three months longer
Wednesday, 15 February 2012 11:41 AM
Tenants of private landlords are staying in their homes almost three months longer than they did two years ago, according to new research.
The Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA) says tenants stayed an average of 19.3 months in their homes in 2011 compared with 16.5 months in 2009.
That's an increase of 17 per cent, which ARLA says could be a reaction to tougher financial times.
ARLA says the trend makes it even more important for tenants and landlords to insist on a comprehensive inventory at the start of the tenancy.
Ian Potter, operations manager, said: "This increase in the length of tenancies will inevitably lead to greater wear and tear in rented accommodation and fewer opportunities for 'downtime' between tenancies for landlords to make improvements.
"Landlords and tenants alike should remember that disputes over deposit returns can be one of the biggest headaches facing both parties, but these can be easily avoided if a professional inventory is prepared."
He added that renters should ensure that the inventory does not just list the contents but states the condition of the property and fixtures and fittings like carpets and curtains.
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