Q&A; Letting a mortgaged property & consent to let
Author: Andy Bedford » Publish Date: 29 October 2009
Question; I intend to move out and let my property with a residential mortgage on it; what should I do, and is this ok?
Firstly, it’s a typical condition of almost all residential mortgage contracts that the property is not to be let without the lender’s consent. So you should always speak to your lender first and see what they say.
Most lenders will be relatively helpful with this; there are numerous reasons people choose to let what was once their home, and it’s a common occurrence.
Some lenders may want to change the mortgage contract to a buy-to-let type; others may change nothing until the current mortgage is out of its initial term.
A lender is unlikely to give you a positive response if you only entered into your mortgage contract very recently. If they did, few people would bother paying the higher interest on a buy-to-let mortgage and would take a residential mortgage and switch it a week later.
You will also need to look at your buildings and contents insurance; it will likely invalidate your policy if you are not the primary occupant.
Tenants are more likely to ruin a property than the owner, so your home insurance may be a little more expensive.
You also need to make sure you comply with all the regulations around being a landlord as regards gas inspections and using a secure tenants deposit scheme to avoid any litigation in the future. You should also investigate if any licensing schemes are applicable with your council.
As usual, if you need further information about this call 0345 4594490 to speak to a mortgage advisor about your circumstances.
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