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This month, Harry Charles Estate Agents explore the historic village of Berkhamsted. Nestled within the Chiltern Hills, this charming medieval settlement provides a taste of country living whilst still offering excellent links for commuters, so it is no surprise it was noted the best place to live in the Southeast of England by the Sunday Times in 2018.
The picturesque village offers a wealth of activities, most in its infamous high street where it offers an array of boutiques and restaurants, including “The Forge Boutique” which sells an array of ladies’ Italian style clothing and “The Giggling Squid”, a popular Thai Restaurant. Emma James Wellness Hub off the high street is ‘the’ centre for physio, wellness treatments and a cryotherapy station. Across the road Yatta is a popular Reformer Pilates centre.
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Managing your energy usage is top of the agenda currently, so the team at Harry Charles Estate Agents have consulted with our energy saving experts to give you some useful advice on how to limit your usage of energy in the kitchen.
Fridges and Freezers:
Fridges and freezers are one of the most energy consuming appliances in the kitchen consuming up to 12% of the average household energy bill. Make sure your appliance is efficient by defrosting the freezer regularly to keep it running efficiently. 1 cm of ice can reduce the efficiency of your freezer by 10% so don’t let ice build-up.
Ovens:
Ovens are also high energy consumers, switching to slow cook ovens, air dryers and microwaves will significantly reduce your bill. When you do use your oven make sure it is clean, as a dirty oven uses more energy than a clean one.
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📅 10th June 2025
The Renters' Rights Bill has now completed the Committee Stage in the House of Lords following seven significant debates. With Royal Assent expected before Parliament’s summer recess (July 2025) and implementation anticipated from October 2025 onwards, this landmark legislation will significantly reshape the private rental sector.
Key reforms include the abolition of fixed-term tenancies, mandatory landlord registration, and stricter compliance rules for rent increases and possession. At Harry Charles, we are proactively preparing to support landlords, tenants, sellers, and buyers through every stage of this transition.
While the Renters' Rights Bill introduces more flexibility for tenants, landlords are not left unprotected. In fact, several key safeguards are in place to help responsible landlords stay secure and in control:
✅ Expanded Section 8 Grounds for Possession
Landlords can now take swift and lawful action if rent payments are missed:
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Rent Arrears: Possession can be sought after 3 months of non-payment, providing a clear legal route.
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Other Breaches: Any serious breach of the tenancy agreement (e.g. anti-social behaviour) remains valid grounds for possession.
✅ Rent Guarantee Options
At Harry Charles, our landlords can purchase a Rent Guarantee and Legal Protection Package, giving peace of mind:
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Guaranteed rent even if the tenant fails to pay.
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Legal costs covered for possession proceedings.
✅ Robust Referencing & Guarantors
We carry out thorough tenant checks, and for those who may not meet standard criteria, we offer guarantor-backed tenancies—adding an extra layer of financial security.
✅ Proactive Monitoring & Support
Our property management team closely monitors rent payments:
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We act quickly at the first sign of arrears.
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We liaise with tenants early to prevent issues from escalating.
✅ Expert Legal Support
Should legal action become necessary, we’re here to guide landlords through every step of the process. Our in-house and partner legal teams ensure you get fast, professional support with minimal disruption.
🧘♂️ Peace of Mind for the New Market
With the right protections in place—from legal safeguards to rent insurance—landlords can remain confident and secure under the new framework. At Harry Charles, we’re here to make sure you stay protected, profitable, and stress-free.
Need advice or want to explore our landlord protection packages?
📞 Call our lettings team on 01923 731313
