Problem with new tenant smoking
Discussion
We own a flat that we've rented out privately for about 10 years. Having run out of friends and aquaintances we've let it through an agency this time. We had to spend several weeks and lots of pennies on renovation when the previous tenant moved out, all windows replaced, new carpet throughout, all walls\ceilings\woodwork repainted, etc. The place is as-new.
Wishing to keep it like this for as long as possible we very clearly told the agency both verbally and in writing that we would only let to a non-smoker. They confirmed that they'd vetted the new tenant they found and that she was a non-smoker.
She moved in yesterday and last night we went to the flat to drop off some documents and found her puffing away in the flat. We have told the agency who don't think that we can do anything now for the initial 6 months of the lease that's been signed. We haven't seen a copy of the lease yet so don't know if there's a no-smoking clause in it. She has admitted that she lied to them.
We will look for some proper legal advice but wondered for now if anyone has an idea of what our rights are and whether our beef should be with the agency or the tenant. The first reaction from the agency wasn't encouraging. Ideally we don't want the flat to suffer from 6 months of fag smell in carpets and paintwork discolouration.
Wishing to keep it like this for as long as possible we very clearly told the agency both verbally and in writing that we would only let to a non-smoker. They confirmed that they'd vetted the new tenant they found and that she was a non-smoker.
She moved in yesterday and last night we went to the flat to drop off some documents and found her puffing away in the flat. We have told the agency who don't think that we can do anything now for the initial 6 months of the lease that's been signed. We haven't seen a copy of the lease yet so don't know if there's a no-smoking clause in it. She has admitted that she lied to them.
We will look for some proper legal advice but wondered for now if anyone has an idea of what our rights are and whether our beef should be with the agency or the tenant. The first reaction from the agency wasn't encouraging. Ideally we don't want the flat to suffer from 6 months of fag smell in carpets and paintwork discolouration.
fido said:
Just wondering what sort of person is she. I mean, class-wise, basically is she a chav? You have to be careful with these types when letting.
Indeed, before you know it shes popping out kids to several different fathers, converted the living room into a cannabis farm and dealing crack though the letter box. All while social services pay her rent, and pay for the upkeep of the kids, even though they are technically feral children who roam the streets. She lied? Breach of contract, surely?
Condi said:
fido said:
Just wondering what sort of person is she. I mean, class-wise, basically is she a chav? You have to be careful with these types when letting.
Indeed, before you know it shes popping out kids to several different fathers, converted the living room into a cannabis farm and dealing crack though the letter box. All while social services pay her rent, and pay for the upkeep of the kids, even though they are technically feral children who roam the streets. Yep. Breach of contract.
You are entitled to the damages caused. I would inform her through the agents of course that she has been 'caught red handed', and thus will hold her liable for any damage including removing the smell, including cleaning of carpets and painting.
Demand that she stops smoking inside now that as this will limit the need and cost when she leaves and with a bit of luck the smell might have been gone.
You are entitled to the damages caused. I would inform her through the agents of course that she has been 'caught red handed', and thus will hold her liable for any damage including removing the smell, including cleaning of carpets and painting.
Demand that she stops smoking inside now that as this will limit the need and cost when she leaves and with a bit of luck the smell might have been gone.
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