Important Information for Organisations Occupying Council Owned Property
We are asked on a daily basis to arrange insurance for smaller charities in respect of property or goods that they need to insure as well as appropriate cover for liabilities that they could incur. More often than not, we are not asked to insure the buildings as this is the responsibility of the landlord.
If the landlord happens to be the 'council' then quite often they seek that you sign a lease agreement.
Be very careful to understand the implications of the lease before signing.
On behalf or one or two of our clients we have discovered that either :-
- The responsibility of repair and condition of plasterwork, floorboards, floor surfacing, damage to glass windows and all landlords fixtures, fittings and additions is down to the tenant. OR
- The responsibility is very unclear and in the event of a flood or bust pipes or similar event, the council will assume that the responsibility falls upon the tenant.
Our strong recommendation is to :-
- Be fully aware of what you are signing.
- Persuade the council to take full responsibility for all Buildings related matters.
- Arrange (with us) extra insurance cover for Buildings related matters for which you find yourselves responsible.
LIABILITIES CAN BE PUT UPON YOU EVEN IF YOU PAY A PEPPERCORN RENT.
If you have any comments about this, please e-mail us.
We are the professional Voluntary Sector Insurance Brokers serving you.