Latest news with #NathanBlackler
Telegraph
5 days ago
- Business
- Telegraph
The insurance policy that might save struggling landlords
It's a worrying time for landlords. Among the forthcoming rule changes under the Renters' Rights Bill, the abolition of Section 21 no-fault evictions will make it more difficult to evict tenants, with some predicting that courts will become clogged up with cases of landlords using other means to get their properties back. If you're facing a tenant who won't pay the rent, that's a huge problem. However, there are ways to manage and reduce the risk of losing your rental income, including rent guarantee insurance. Nathan Blackler, of said: 'With changes to the Renters' Rights Bill in England set to abolish a landlord's right to end tenancies without reason, there is a growing awareness around insurance products that are available for landlords that protect their interests, as well as those of their tenants. 'While the proposed changes to the bill won't prevent landlords from taking action if tenants breach their rental contract, for instance if they stop paying rent or cause damage to the property, we expect to see an increase in landlords exploring more ways that they can protect themselves in case there are any issues with their tenants.' Rent guarantee insurance is one such policy. Here, Telegraph Money explains how it works and whether it's worth paying for. What is rent guarantee insurance? This type of insurance specifically deals with unpaid rent. It can also be referred to as 'rent protection insurance'. It protects you as a landlord from potential financial hardship if your tenants don't pay their rent while you seek repossession of the property. This process can take several months, which can mean a lot of lost revenue – and the chance that you can't make the mortgage repayments. What does rent guarantee insurance cover? These policies cover the rent that is owed, as well as some extras that are related to this kind of situation. Policies typically cover: Unpaid rent: usually you are covered for rental payments for up to 12 months with a limit on the amount paid out. Landlord legal expenses: your policy can pay out between £50,000 and £100,000 to cover legal costs associated with eviction, including court costs. Expert support: you can get access to a legal advice helpline for guidance on property disputes. Pros and cons These policies won't suit everyone, so it's a good idea to weigh up the pros and cons before you pay out. Pros Peace of mind that rent might be covered if tenants stop paying, protecting you from potential losses. It could help pay for legal and court costs to achieve eviction. Some policies pay a proportion of the rent even after eviction, for example if your property needs repairs before it can be let out again.
Metro
24-04-2025
- Business
- Metro
Map reveals the English regions hit by this year's biggest council tax hikes
This year, council tax in England will go up by a total of £2.1 billion – but some are facing far bigger hikes than others. Based on the nationwide average increase of 4.9%, the annual bill for a typical band D property is estimated to be £109 more expensive than the 2024/25 period, with the previous figure of £2,171 rising to £2,280 on April 1. However, the situation varies across local authorities: nearly half raised rates by the maximum 5%, while six councils around the country were granted permission to exceed this cap. According to a new study by Birmingham will see the biggest overall jump among England's 296 billing areas, paying an extra £43.1 million over the 2025/26 period. Using government data, the comparison site also compared each authority's increase against its population, drilling down to the impact on an individual basis. Results show Windsor and Maidenhead residents will officially be hit hardest, with the bill for each eligible household rising £169.43 compared to 2024/25. Somerset and Bradford didn't fare much better either, placing second and third highest thanks to respective increases of £165.19 and £163.40. More Trending Aside from Manchester's Trafford district in fourth, the rest of the top (or bottom, depending on how you look at it) 10 councils were clustered together in the South, but Richmond Upon Thames was the only one in London. Elsewhere, Welsh taxpayers can expect rises of between 4.5% and 9.5%, while in Scotland the jump – the first after a two-year freeze – will typically be at least 8%. Nathan Blackler, home insurance expert at commented: 'Council tax is an essential household expense, but for many, these rising costs are putting even more pressure on already stretched budgets. If you're struggling, it's worth checking if you qualify or council tax reductions or any support schemes in your area. View More » 'At the same time, looking for savings on other bills, like home insurance, could help offset some of these rising costs. Shopping around for a better deal could make a real difference to your monthly outgoings.' Windsor & Maidenhead: £169.43 Somerset: £165.19 Bradford: £163.40 Trafford: £144.20 Elmbridge: £143.47 Tandridge: £140.38 Wealden: £139.06 Waverley: £138.56 Mole Valley: £137.61 Richmond upon Thames: £136.63 Buckinghamshire: £136.05 North Yorkshire: £134.37 Sevenoaks: £134.11 Surrey Heath: £133.94 Rutland: £133.80 West Oxfordshire: £132.55 Birmingham: £131.71 Wokingham: £131.40 South Oxfordshire: £131.29 Epsom & Ewell: £130.59 MORE: Bailiffs refuse to kick grieving disabled man out of council flat he was born in MORE: Prison guard 'twerks' for drill rapper filming her behind bars MORE: Pedro Pascal blasts 'heinous loser' JK Rowling after his powerful statement for trans community
