Guide to Letting Property
Guide for Landlords
Before a property can be let, there are several matters which the owner will need to deal with to ensure that the tenancy runs smoothly, and also that he/she complies with the law.
We provide summarised information below. If you require further advice or assistance with any matter, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Preparing Your Property for Letting
Preparing the Property
We have found that a good relationship with Tenants is the key to a smooth-running tenancy. As Property Managers this relationship is our job, but it is important that the Tenants should feel comfortable in their temporary home, and that they are receiving value for their money. It follows therefore that a well-presented and maintained property in good decorative order will go towards this, whilst also achieving a higher rental figure. Tenants are also more inclined to treat such a property with greater respect.
General Condition
Electrical, gas plumbing, waste, central heating, and hot water systems must be safe, sound, and in good working order. Repairs and maintenance are at the Landlords expense unless misuse can be established. Interior decorations should be in good condition and preferably plain, light, and neutral.
Furnishings
Your property can be let fully furnished, part furnished, or unfurnished. Which of these is appropriate will depend on the type of property and local market conditions. We will be pleased to give you advice on whether to furnish or not and to what level. As a minimum, you will need to provide decent-quality carpets, curtains, and light fittings. Remember that there will be wear and tear on the property and any items provided.
Personal items, ornaments, etc.
Personal possessions, ornaments, pictures, books, etc. should be removed from the premises, especially those of real or sentimental value. Some items may be boxed, sealed, and stored in the loft at the ownerâs risk. All cupboards and shelf space should be left clear for the Tenantâs own use.
Gardens
Gardens should be left neat, tidy, and rubbish-free, with any lawns, cut. Tenants are required to maintain the gardens to a reasonable standard, provided they are left with the necessary tools. However, few Tenants are experienced gardeners, and if you value your garden, or if it is particularly large, you may wish us to arrange visits by our regular gardener.
Cleaning
At the commencement of the tenancy the property must be in a thoroughly clean condition, and at the end of each tenancy, it is the Tenants’ responsibility to leave the property in a similar condition. Where they fail to do so, cleaning will be arranged at their expense.
Information and Documentation for Tenants
Information for the Tenant
It is helpful if you leave information for the Tenant, e.g. on operating the central heating and hot water system, washing machine and alarm system, and the day refuse is collected, etc.
Keys
You should provide one set of keys for each Tenant. Where we will be managing we will arrange to have duplicates cut as required.
Mortgage
If your property is mortgaged, you should obtain your mortgageeâs written consent to the letting. They may require additional clauses in the tenancy agreement of which you must inform us.
Leaseholds
If you are a leaseholder, you should check the terms of your lease, and obtain any necessary written consent before letting.
Insurance
You should ensure that you are suitably covered for letting under both your buildings and contents insurance. Failure to inform your insurers may invalidate your policies. We can provide information on Landlord’s Legal Protection, Rent Guarantee Cover, and landlord’s Contents and Buildings Insurance if required.
Bills and regular outgoings
We recommend that you arrange for regular outgoings e.g. service charges, maintenance contracts, etc. to be paid by standing order or direct debit. However, where we are managing the property, by prior written agreement we may make payment of certain bills on your behalf, provided such bills are received in your name at our office, and that sufficient funds are held to your credit.
Council Tax and Utility Accounts
We will arrange for the transfer of Council Tax and utility accounts to the Tenant. Meter readings will be taken, allowing your closing gas and electricity accounts to be drawn up. All these matters we will handle for you, however, British Telecom will require instructions directly from both the Landlord and the Tenant.
Income Tax
When resident in the UK, it is entirely the Landlords responsibility to inform the Revenue & Customs of rental income received and to pay any tax due. Where the Landlord is a resident outside the UK during a tenancy, he will require an exemption certificate from the HM Revenue & Customs before he can receive rental balances without deduction of tax. Where we are managing the property we will provide advice and assistance on applying for such exemption.
Property Management and Compliance
How to Rent Guide
How to Rent Guide
A guide for tenants and landlords in the private rented sector to help them understand their rights and responsibilities. It provides a checklist and more detailed information on each stage of the process.
Becoming a Landlord?
If you’re contemplating becoming a landlord, the best starting point is to get an idea of the market value of your property. We are always happy to visit, at a time to suit and give you our professional opinion on price.
There is no charge or obligation whatsoever, and any discussions we have are in complete confidence.