The second tenant has rented our commercial property and an upper residential area attached together. Initially, the tenant requested that we handle various repairs, but the contract clearly states that maintaining the property is the tenant’s responsibility, as it was in good condition when rented. However, the tenant complained to the council, and the council intervened, requiring us to carry out repairs under the Housing Act 2004. We complied with the initial repair requests, but the tenant has continued to ask for additional repairs that should be their responsibility.
Additionally, in May, we issued Section 146 and Section 8 notices due to unpaid fees, which were later settled, but the tenant has continuously caused damage to the property. We also discovered that they have altered the commercial space from A3/A5 takeaway use to a retail shop without permission. Recently, the tenant has contacted us through their lawyer, seeking to recover the money they invested in the premises. The lease expires next July, and we also do not intend to renew it.
Main recap: 1. Property not maintained in good condition by the tenant as it was at handover: -Garden left overgrown, resembling a forest. -Despite prior damp removal, tenant continues to dry wet clothes inside, which could lead to more damp issues. -Water often spilled on the floor, leaving areas wet. 2. Over 22 years of renting to other tenants, the property was always kept in good condition without issues; however, this tenant has caused multiple problems since moving in. 3. Tenant made unauthorized changes to the property: -Changed the use of the property without my consent. -Broke a wall without notifying me. 4. Tenant filed a complaint with the council, prompting council intervention under the Housing Act 2004. We complied with initial repair requests, but the tenant has continued to demand additional repairs that should be their responsibility. 5. Tenant now insists that any issues require us to repair without their financial contribution. They also threaten to sue us for renovation costs they invested if we do not renew their lease when it expires in July next year.
We looking for a qualified solicitor that can resolve the matter for us in fixed price basis.
