Maintaining FFHH Properties Through the Winter Months

A rental property is provided as a home for tenants and must be fit for human habitation (FFHH) throughout the tenancy. As the weather changes, it’s vital for agents to stay on top of property maintenance and ensure issues are put right for their tenants as soon as possible.

FFHH can sometimes be confused with HHSRS (Housing, Health, and Safety Rating System). There is 29 Hazard risks listed on the HHSRS and, unlike HHSRS, the FFHH obligation does not require a detailed risk assessment to be conducted by a local authority. Therefore, agents and landlords must ensure that the property is suitable for occupation in respect of the following areas:

• Repair (e.g. the building is neglected and in poor condition)
• Stability of the building
• Freedom from dampness
• Internal arrangement (e.g., unsafe layout)
• Natural lighting (e.g. insufficient natural light)
• Sufficient ventilation
• Water supply (e.g. issues with the supply of hot and cold water)
• Drainage and sanitary conveniences
• Facilities for storage, preparation, and cooking of food and for the disposal of wastewater

The agent or landlord is considered responsible from when they are made aware of the problem by the tenant. If they do not actively attempt to put the issue the tenant would be able to take them to court.

Working with tenants is key for FFHH

It is highly advised to support tenants with information guides to help them ensure that their upkeep of the property is sufficient. In 2023 dampness issues highlighted potential harm to individuals, so helping tenants avoid condensation in their homes can help to control these issues. For example, having a well-ventilated property is essential if tenants are drying clothing indoors during the winter months. Providing tenants with information explaining why it’s important to open windows and use extractor fans when bathing or showering can be beneficial for the upkeep of the property and the health of the tenants.

Adequate facilities must also be provided for tenants to use – windows that open and close properly, and ensuring extractor fans are in safe, working order.

Ensure peace of mind with KPR habitation software

Introducing KPR property software goes way beyond midterms and inventory reporting. Our automated scheduling and reminders for expiry dates and certificate renewals ensure nothing is overlooked, so FFHH standards remain high.

More agents are investing in property habitation software that can save time and money and provide confidence that properties are fully FFHH covered – a small price to pay for an invaluable return.

KPR provides habitation software to ensure peace of mind and help towards the smooth running of a letting agent’s portfolio, which includes:

• Professionally presented information sheets bearing your company branding offers tenants the tools to ensure that their upkeep of the property is sufficient.
• Automated scheduling and reminders, such as certificate expiration dates, and testing of smoke detectors and CO monitors, ensuring every detail is covered.
• Offers tenants the ability to conduct their own Midterm report, saving agents’ time and minimising visits.
• Secure storage for date and time-stamped documentation and certificates.
• Simple communication between agent and tenant, all in one place.
• Our automation software with reminders ensures that you stay compliant, so you never miss a deadline, and certificate renewals will never be overlooked.
• Our software features a portal with exclusive access to direct communication between tenant and the managing agent and swift repairs reporting using a unique QR code for their property.

At KPR we understand the demands of the industry and strive to address the issues agents and property owners face. We have our own in-house development team with knowledge of modem technology and methodologies, keeping |KP\r current, and always focusing on the next level.

If you would like to speak with us about how we can assist you and your business, feel free to speak with our helpful team today!

0208 542 2333

hello@kpr.global