Buy to Let - Landlords Beware

Planning changes are being quietly slipped into effect on 6^th April 2010 that will affect many properties being brought into use as student lets after that date.  The definition of 'dwellinghouse' at present includes up to six 'unconnected' people - so the vast majority  of student houses/flats come within that definition.

On 6^th April that is being amended to two only and a new planning 'class' for student lets is being introduced. So - from that date, if you buy a house/flat that has not previously been used as a student let then, if you intend to have three or more students in it - you will need a separate Planning Permission (and how may objections to your application from resident neighbours do you think there will be, especially if there are already noise problems in the area, or a shortage of parking?)

This will not affect existing student houses but there may be a trap for the unwary.  If you have a student house, and for any period, let it to a family you may lose the 'established' student use - and find you need Planning Permission when you go back to student lettings.

The government's 'press release' can be found at http://haveyoursay.communities.gov.uk/content/HaveYourSay.aspx (planningandbuilding/1447625).