New service launched to assist property owners and letting agents
A new nationwide service has been set up to assist landlords, developers and letting agents in an ever-changing property landscape. Landlord Support Services (LSS), an advice centre headed up by two experienced professionals in the provision of advisory and advocacy services and based at Euro Business Park, Little Island, Cork, commenced business this week to address issues in this regard.
Joanne Kiely, and Catherine O’Shea, Directors of Landlord Support Services have over 11 years experience with a National Housing Organisation. Joanne Kiely told us: ‘Owning property is no longer the preserve of wealthy individuals and we are very aware of the stresses, both financial and personal, involved on both sides of the fence. The service we provide will ensure easy access to crucial information, advice and advocacy services, using our information and advice telephone helpline, email support and private consultations where necessary. We will address landlord needs; turning the business of letting into a seamless and stress-free venture for all concerned.’
According to Ms. Kiely: ‘The introduction of the Private Residential Tenancies Act on the 1st September 2004 introduced many new legislative measures governing landlord and tenant relationships including the establishment of the Private Residential Tenancies Board. Landlord Support Services can interface with the PRTB on behalf of clients, preparing cases for PRTB adjudication hearings as well as representing clients at these hearings. This service, along with dealing with the day to day issues involved in letting agreements and arrangements, can be handled quickly and efficiently, putting systems in place which are workable and avoiding problems later on. ’
Since the 1st January 2009, it is now a legal requirement that all properties are assessed for a BER Certificate. Additionally in February 2009 new legislation on Minimum Standards in private rented accommodation was introduced and a €200 levy has been introduced, payable to Local Authorities on all second homes. ‘This, means that landlords, developers and letting agents are being bamboozled with paperwork, telephone queries from tenants and obstacles which they sometimes do not fully understand or have the time to countenance’ said Ms. Kiely.
She went on to state that these legislative requirements, coupled with the economic downturn, have resulted in landlords trying to manage their rental portfolios themselves, often not understanding fully their rights and obligations and in turn leading to misunderstandings with their tenants. ‘This is where we come in’ she said. ‘Whether it is a one-property owner who is not au fait with legislative issues, or an experienced property owner/developer who has experienced difficulties in managing his/her properties in the downturn, we are on hand to address and resolve issues on their behalf.’
‘Landlords have rights and obligations’ said Catherine O’Shea, Director of Landlord Support Services. ‘We operate independently of any government body so registered and non registered landlords can avail of the confidential services provided. Landlords’ rights can be protected, particularly when faced with difficult tenants or situations, through our helpdesk or by arranging a consultation. Our advocacy services provide a cost effective alternative to expensive legal proceedings. In our experience, effective mediation with tenants (on a landlord’s behalf), can avoid time consuming dispute resolution procedures.’
‘More property owners are seeking to let out their properties and letting agents will need to provide a full information, advice and advocacy support service to these clients. The service offered by Landlord Support Services will enhance the service offered by letting agencies like ours. The service fulfils a need and is well overdue.’ said Managing Director of Sherry FitzGerald Residential (Cork), Sheila O’Flynn.
Landlord Support Services will hold seminars in Waterford, Kerry and Limerick over the coming months to acquaint landlords, letting agents and the general public with important information on all aspects of the rental market and the solutions Landlord Support Services have to offer to assist clients.
http://www.landlordsupport.ie; helpline 1580 200 222
Pictured on Western Road, Cork at the launch of Landlord Support Services were (on left) Joanne Kiely and Catherine O’ Shea (Directors). Landlord Support Services is a nationwide service providing advisory and advocacy services to landlords, letting agents and property developers.
For further information or to arrange an interview with Landlord Support Services personnel please call:
Judy Hopkins
Hopkins Communications Cork
00 353 21 4272200; 00 353 86 3120752 (cellphone)
judy@hopkinscommunications.ie