A tenant moved in and after a few weeks I got an urgent text to say the door was jammed - as I could not get to their text within a few hours, they said they called a locksmith to change the lock and keys - they asked me to contribute £100 for the change.
I suggested I would like to give them the cash after I have someone go to the property and check the key with the lock. Each time I have requested viewing and quarterly inspection, they have made up different excuses like they are traveling or overseas or sometimes have ignored my request for access.
They pay their rent on time and in full - but I am worried.
I have even had someone go past but no one was home.
Welcome thoughts or suggestion, do I keep trying to get access and end up with having to evict or do I leave it until I need to change rent or move them on?
Yes, you keep trying. They may have deliberately changed the locks to stop you getting entry. I would tell them I want a key to the new lock this week and am happy to inspect when theyre not there if thats the only option. If they refused or delayed further I would serve a s21 notice.
Thanks David - just a bit worried to go down that stand off of serving notice as I dont have any buffer between my rent and my mortgage and would be in Huge trouble if I can’t make any rent payments by even a week
Then I’m sorry to say that you shouldnt be letting the property. Anyone can get a non-paying tenant and they have to have a sufficient buffer to weather it.
It sounds as though there is something that the tenant doesnt want you to see. A pet? Lodgers/sub-tenants? Brothel? Cannabis farm? You need to get access to inspect.
that is not a good position to be in. Tight income v mortgage. . Guess you know that now . Newcomers think renting out is money for old rope, it is not that easy . unless you buy places outright.
and would be in Huge trouble if I can’t make any rent payments by even a week