Homes & Gardens

Local landlords and letting agents are being offered a free good practice guide in an attempt to drive up standards in Exeter.

The initiative is being launched by Exeter City Council in partnership with the newly formed Exeter Private Rental Forum.

The guide is aimed at helping landlords and agents understand their rights and responsibilities. It is hoped this will result in an improved service for tenants.

“We know there are landlords in the city who share our aim of driving up the quality and standard of private rented housing," said Cllr Heather Morris, Lead...

Two in five (41%) landlords in the South West admit that they struggle to keep up with changes in law relating to letting property a week before a new deadline that could leave them with heavy fines for missing.

There are already over 50 Acts of Parliament and more than 70 sets of regulations that govern the private-rented sector (PRS).

The new deadline – 23rd June – imposed as part of the Deregulation Act, affects landlords and agents in England and Wales who still hold a deposit on a tenancy that began before 6 April 2007 – when Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) laws were...

As summer approaches, Devon & Somerset & Fire & Rescue Service as part of the Fire Kills campaign, are asking people to make sure their family, guests and loved ones know how to get out, stay out, and call 999 in the event of a fire.

A smoke alarm can give you the warning you need to get out of your home in a fire, but a blocked exit, locked door or unfamiliar surroundings can often shave vital seconds from the escape time, exposing you to the fatal dangers of toxic smoke.

Some simple steps and a clear escape plan in the event of a fire will help ensure that...

A study by TopCashback.co.uk, released today, reveals barbecues are burning a hole in resident’s pockets. Between hosting and attending barbecues during the summer months, residents in the South West will spend an average of £520 on everything from burger buns to corn on the cob.

On average, the majority of residents in the South West will host four barbecues throughout the summer, spending £100 on each. They will also attend four, spending £30 on food, drink and gifts to take with them each time. A surprising 18 per cent of residents will spend up to £300 on hosting a barbecue for...