Tenants Have Left Without Paying Rent Or Giving Notice

[sazzle84]

My tenants signed up for a 12 month contract ending May 2012. The rent did not go in for October so after a couple of days I tried to contact them. I have left voice messages, text messages etc and have had no response. I have since spoken to the estate agents that I advertised through and they informed me that the tenant had handed the keys in a few weeks ago!!!

The tenant had signed into a legally binding contract and I really don’t know where to go from here. I would be happy with the October rent as that would have taken them to a 6 month contract but legally I know I can claim for the full 12 months.

I am now selling the property as have had nothing but trouble since I have been renting so I am going to leave it to the professionals :-) I just want some info on where I stand.

Thanks in advance.

[fliptheswitch]

Did you have a deposit for them? Do you still have it?

[sazzle84]

Yes, the deposit was held with tenancy deposit scheme.

[fliptheswitch]

Then you can keep that, as the last months rent.
Nice of the estate agents to let you know!

[sazzle84]

I hope I don't need it for any repairs then. Visiting the property tonight. Fingers crossed.

[fliptheswitch]

I think it's really bad that the agents you are paying to look after your property, haven't done so.... or even informed you that your tenants moved out! Good luck with it all :-)

[sazzle84]

I know. Not impressed but what can you do. Thank you :-)

[albaqwerty]

If your agents belong to a professinoal body, couldn't you complain to the professional body?

[granny grump]

Surely you have a contract with the letting agents and they are due you a 'duty of care' I would speak to the Citizen's Advice bureau of a solicitor to see where you stand

[themas]

Theoretically you might be able to claim for the full 12 months but it's no use trying if you don't know where they are; also it may well be that they don't have the money so any Court judgement you got against them would cost you & you would get mothing back.

I fully agree you should pursue the agents - ridiculous for them to know for several weeks & say nothing. I trust you're not using them to sell the house!

[AlBags]

Well what actually was the Estate Agents response when you quizzed them about it?
Are you sure there are no services charges still unpaid on the property? .. ie Gas, Electric, etc.
Best you find out.