We are deligted to announce Blue Crystal has been nominated for the Enterprise Vision Awards 2024. The EVAS are the UK’s premier business awards dedicated solely to women and this year the awards will be celebrating its 13th anniversary. The awards recognise the successes and achievements of women in business and this is a wonderful opportunity to shine the spotlight on you and your business. Book your 30-minute complimentary property consultation by phone: 020 8994 7327 or email: pm@bluecrystallondon.co.uk. The post Blue Crystal Property Management has been nomi ..read more

What types of property damage can cost landlords the most to fix? When it comes to managing rental properties, one of the biggest headaches for landlords is dealing with damages. From broken windows to significant structural issues caused by subsidence, property damage can vary greatly in severity and cost. According to the National Residential Landlords Association, fire, flood and subsidence are some of the most expensive insured causes of tenanted property damage. Fire Damage For landlords, safeguarding both their property and tenants against fire hazards is essential. Landlords must follo ..read more

What are the most common risks landlords face? As a landlord, navigating the world of owning rental properties presents numerous opportunities for financial gain, but it also comes with inherent risks. Understanding and effectively managing these risks is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring long-term success. Let’s explore the most common risks faced by landlords, actionable strategies to mitigate them and how Blue Crystal can help with landlord risk management. The top five most common risks faced by landlords 1. Escape of Water Water damage is one of the most pervasive risks ..read more

Essential guide to preparing your property to let Renting out your property can be a lucrative venture, but it comes with many responsibilities and legal obligations. Whether you’re a seasoned landlord or considering dipping your toes into the rental market, by following our comprehensive checklist, you can ensure that your house or flat is well-prepared for tenants and that you’re meeting all the necessary legal requirements. Legal Requirements for Letting a Property It’s essential to approach renting a property with careful planning and attention to detail to mitigate risks and maximise retu ..read more

How to minimise your property tax in 2023/2024 Property taxes can often be a significant financial burden for landlords in the UK. However, there are various property tax relief options and strategies available to help you reduce your tax liability in 2023/2024. Let’s explore what property tax relief is, what tax relief you can claim, and how to minimise your property tax effectively. What is Property Tax Relief in the UK? What tax relief can I claim? Property tax relief in the UK refers to a range of tax deductions and allowances designed to ease the financial burden on residential property o ..read more

An essential guide for landlords to avoid issues in the colder months Before the cold weather sets in, it’s crucial for landlords to prioritise winter property maintenance. Failing to do so can lead to costly repairs and unhappy tenants. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with an essential checklist and top tips for landlords to ensure your rental property is well-prepared for the winter months. From protecting your pipes to maintaining heating systems and more, we’ve got you covered with our top property maintenance tips. Winter Maintenance Checklist Inspect and Clean Gutters and ..read more

An essential guide for landlords to avoid issues in the colder months Before the cold weather sets in, it’s crucial for landlords to prioritise winter property maintenance. Failing to do so can lead to costly repairs and unhappy tenants. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide you with an essential checklist and top tips for landlords to ensure your rental property is well-prepared for the winter months. From protecting your pipes to maintaining heating systems and more, we’ve got you covered with our top property maintenance tips. Winter Maintenance Checklist Inspect and Clean Gutters and ..read more

Sometimes, landlords find themselves in a situation where they need to regain possession of their property. In such cases, a Section 21 notice becomes an essential tool for the landlord. This notice, governed by the Housing Act 1988, allows landlords to initiate the process of eviction while following the legal requirements. Section 21 Notice – The Basics A Section 21 notice, also known as an eviction notice or notice to quit, is a legal document used by landlords to terminate an AST and regain possession of their property without stating a reason. However, certain requirements must be met fo ..read more

A Section 13 notice is a formal notice served by a landlord to propose an increase in the rent for a property that is subject to an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST). It allows the landlord to adjust the rent to reflect changes in market conditions or to cover increased costs related to the property. The Landlord’s Right to Increase Rent Landlords have the right to increase the rent during an AST, but there are specific rules and procedures they must follow. This is where Section 13 notices come into play. Landlords can only increase the rent by serving Section 13 notices. Section 13 of the Hou ..read more

When it comes to managing rental properties, it’s crucial to be well-versed in the legal aspects of tenancy agreements and procedures to evict tenants. In most instances, landlords seeking to regain possession of their property rented under an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) would typically consider employing the ‘no-fault’ procedure outlined in Section 21 of the Housing Act 1988 (“the Act”). However, in cases where this option is unavailable – such as when the tenancy remains within the fixed term with no break provision or when there are other constraints preventing the use of the Section 2 ..read more