Inspections
Starting during the latter part of 2006 and following an initial appraisal of applications received, inspections will be conducted by either the Partner in charge or a member of the Management Team. Marketing of the accommodation register will commence shortly thereafter.

Properties will be assessed thoroughly according to our comprehensive check list which will pay particular attention to location, cleanliness, facilities available, number of bedrooms/beds, bed to bathroom ratio, parking facilities and in particular to ensure compliance with furniture and furnishing regulations and gas and electrical safety legislation Each property to be included in the official accommodation register will have to demonstrate compliance to the following legislation. We are available to help you through this process by contacting the Golf Lettings Office on 01704 504303 or email info@golfopen2008.com

For assistance in locating tradesmen or specialists who are able to carry out relevant tests to ensure compliance with all safety legislation then please contact us or visit the Information Section our website www.golfopen2008.com

The Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Regulations 1998
These regulations came into force on the 31st October 1998 relating to all gas appliances, fittings, pipework and installations, fixed or portable, be it mains, propane or calor gas.

Full information can be obtained from the Health & Safety executive but in summary the Landlord/Agent must for the purposes of this short term letting: Ensure that a valid and current gas safety record is in place and be in a position to provide a copy of the document to ourselves as agents at least 3 months prior to the date of the letting commencing on the 12th July 2008. i.e. by the 12th April 2008.

The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994
These regulations cover all mains voltage household electrical items and require that the supplier of such goods ensures that they are safe. This will include flexes, correct fusing and plugs. Best practice dictates that prior to any tenancy the portable appliances supplied should be checked by means of a PAT test from a suitably qualified contractor. You should satisfy yourselves as to the soundness and safety of the electrical installation. Industry guidelines specify that electrical circuitry should be tested at least every 5 years

The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (Amendment 1993)
In summary it is an offence to supply in the course of business any furniture to which the regulations apply unless it meets the cigarette, match and ignitability tests. This includes supply of furniture as part of a letting. Furniture manufactured prior to 1950 is not covered by the regulations. Any furniture manufactured after March 1990 is likely to comply. Should furniture not have the relevant compliance labels affixed/sewn in, then a signed statement will be required from each individual landlord confirming compliance and that documentary proof of purchase can be provided if requested. The regulations apply to sofas, beds, bed heads, garden furniture where it is suitable for indoor use, scatter cushions, pillows and covers. The regulations do not apply to carpets, curtains, towels or bedclothes.

The Smoke Detection Act 1991
This act requires that all new residential buildings, including conversions are to have mains operated smoke detectors installed. This is incorporated under the Building Regulations 1991 and should already be complied with in all applicable properties. It is recommended by Ball & Percival as best practice, that in all properties offered for letting a smoke detector is present on all floors. Section 11 of the Landlord & Tenant Act 1985 confirms that a landlord has a statutory obligation to carry out repairs in relation to the; i) Structure and exterior of the dwelling including drains, gutters and external pipes. ii) Continuance of the supply of water, gas, electricity, gas and sanitation. iii) Space and water heating appliances.