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Thanks for that, nox ~ I have my friend here with me and it's good to have an opinion from a landlord!
I see your point regarding the carpets. When you get a property ready for letting do you make sure the carpets are relatively new? the ones in their house were on their way out when they moved in, so you can imagine the state they are in now.
They have put in laminate flooring at their own expense downstairs, but have yet to tackle the upstairs floors. I think it's the kitchen & bathroom they have more concerns about. Anyway, they are going to contact the landlord to work something out. If necessary they will move to something more plush!
Thanks guys :o)