Is Your Thanet Rental Being Used for Criminal Activity? Here Are the Signs

This week’s lettings article looks at how to recognise the signs your rental is being used for illegal activity.

It’s every landlord’s worst nightmare: you discover the people you thought were trusted tenants are actually crooks using your property for illegal activity.

As a result, you face hefty repair bills, loss of income and a battle with your insurer. You may also find yourself at the centre of a police investigation.

Now, this is a worst-case scenario; most tenants are law-abiding, so there’s no need to panic.

Signs that Something Isn't Quite Right

But it’s still worth being on your guard for the signs that something isn’t quite right at your rental.

• Your tenant always has an excuse as to why you can’t access the property.
• A tenant has installed their own security system or CCTV.
• Neighbours complain about people coming and going at all hours and disruptive behaviour.
• An unusual odour such as a fruity, pungent smell or something akin to cat wee or rotten eggs.
• The electrical wiring has been tampered with.
• Large patches of dead grass or stained/soiled concrete outside where chemicals have been dumped.
• The property is so sparsely furnished it’s hard to believe someone lives there.
• Blacked-out windows.
• An excessive amount of rubbish or overflowing bins.

How to Protect Your Investment

• Never cut corners on tenant referencing or agree to a ‘cash in hand’ arrangement.
• Introduce yourself to the neighbours and explain how they can get in touch if they have concerns.
• Have a comprehensive landlord insurance policy.
• Build a strong rapport with your tenants.
• Carry out regular property inspections.
• Use an experienced letting agent to manage the property for you.