Homeowners rent when they can’t sell

ARLA has voiced concern that these reluctant landlords may not be aware of the pitfalls when renting out a property no matter how short the tenancy.

As a result it has published advice for consumers on best practice in short-term lettings.

Among these items of best practice, ARLA has advised consumers that if they are renting out their home for the first time, they should notify their mortgage and insurance providers as they will need to amend the terms for both if they are changing the use of their home to a rental property.

Ian Potter, operations manager at ARLA, said: “It’s likely that many of these reluctant landlords will be attracted by the flexibility of a short-term let. Renting a home on a shorter basis can be a good option for anyone who has found a buyer for their home, but not found the right property to buy themselves.

“Equally, for anyone “testing” a new area before committing to move there, or working away from home for short periods, renting can offer more stability and home comforts than a hotel.”