The National Landlords Association (NLA) is urging landlords to familiarise themselves with their legal obligations to tenants.
The call comes after it published research showing that more than a quarter of landlords had been letting out for year or less.
According to the data, 27 per cent of landlords have been letting for less than five year, with 14 per cent letting for only two years. It also revealed that 21 per cent of landlords had been letting between six and 10 years, with more than half (52 per cent) letting for more than 10 years.
The NLA’s findings also showed that the number of part-time landlords was at its highest level ever, comprising 70 per cent of the sector.
The NLA said that with these figures in mind, it was reminding all landlords or their obligations towards their tenants and the importance of maintaining good standards within the private-rented sector.
Richard Lambert, Chief Executive Officer, NLA, said: “These findings tell us that a significant proportion of landlords have only been in business for a relatively short period of time. Even the most seasoned of landlords experience problems, so it is crucial that anyone new to the industry is aware of their obligations and understands that being a landlord involves much more than simply purchasing a property.
“Landlords should make sure they educate themselves as to what is expected of them, legally and professionally, especially if they plan to manage the properties themselves. Not knowing your obligations as a landlord could result in serious problems, financial as well as legal. A tenant should be safe and comfortable in their home and ignorance is no excuse.
“In order to ensure good standards in the sector, anyone who is thinking of becoming a landlord should do their research first and make sure they continually keep up-to-date with legislation and good standards of practice.”