Your name is your most valuable trademark.

We come across plenty of young people who rent properties. They have no idea of the repercussions of not paying your rent, damaging the property or just not notifying the landlord about critical maintenance issues.

If they have to go to the Tenancy Tribunal this will be on their record – with all other potential Landlords being able to see the outcome of the hearing. This could make it difficult to rent in the future. It may not worry a 20 something who jumps from flat to flat, but I am sure a 30 something with young children and a desperate need to find a decent home may regret having a record.

If they owe money after the Tribunal hearing then this may also affect their credit rating. Which in turn could affect their ability to do a who number of things such as gaining credit, buying a house or even limit your job prospects.

One young “ex” tenant that have been dealing with told me it didn’t worry him if I got debt collectors to collect the amount he owed in rent arrears. After all he owned nothing and had nothing for them to take, he was bullet proof and invincible. I sent him a little email, outlining the impact that decision will have on his future. He is due to make his first payment tomorrow towards paying back his debt.

So for all tenants who are new to the renting scene. Don’t take your decisions lightly. Take care in who you choose for flatmates. Always pay your rent and look after the place. Your name is your most important trademark and don’t ever tarnish it.