Letting a property comes with a number of responsibilities. Before a tenancy begins, landlords need to ensure their property is properly prepared, safe and compliant with the relevant requirements.
This guide provides an overview of some of the key considerations. If you need further advice or would like Alto to manage the process for you, please get in touch.
Letting a property comes with a number of responsibilities. Before a tenancy begins, landlords need to ensure their property is properly prepared, safe and compliant with the relevant requirements.
This guide provides an overview of some of the key considerations. If you need further advice or would like Alto to manage the process for you, please get in touch.
A well-presented and properly maintained property can help attract the right tenants, achieve an appropriate rental value and create the foundations for a successful tenancy. Gas, electrical, plumbing, heating and hot water systems should be safe and in good working order, and necessary repairs should be addressed before marketing.
Neutral, well-kept decoration can also help make a property attractive to a wider range of prospective tenants.
Properties can be offered furnished, part-furnished or unfurnished. The most appropriate option will depend on the property, location and likely tenant. Any furniture and furnishings supplied must meet the relevant safety requirements.
Personal possessions and items of financial or sentimental value should generally be removed before a tenancy begins. Cupboards, shelves and other storage should also be left appropriately clear for the tenant’s use.
Gardens should be presented neat, tidy and free from rubbish at the beginning of the tenancy. Responsibilities for ongoing garden maintenance should be made clear to the tenant. For larger or specialist gardens, landlords may wish to arrange regular professional maintenance.
The property should be thoroughly clean when the tenant moves in. Its condition should be properly documented at the beginning of the tenancy so it can be compared fairly when the tenant leaves.
Useful information can include instructions for heating, hot water, appliances and alarm systems, alongside details such as refuse and recycling collection days.
An appropriate set of keys should be provided to the tenants. Where Alto manages the property, we can arrange and retain the necessary management set.
If the property is mortgaged, landlords should check the terms of their mortgage and obtain any consent required before letting the property.
Leasehold owners should check their lease for any restrictions, conditions or consent requirements relating to letting the property.
Standard residential insurance may not provide appropriate cover for a rented property. Landlords should tell their insurer that the property is being let and make sure suitable buildings, contents and landlord-specific cover is in place where required.
Landlords should make appropriate arrangements for costs that remain their responsibility, such as service charges and maintenance contracts. Where we manage a property, we can discuss which property-related payments and administration can be handled as part of the management service.
Responsibility for council tax and utilities will depend on the circumstances of the tenancy. Appropriate meter readings and account information should be recorded when tenants move in and out, and relevant providers notified where required.
Rental income may be taxable and landlords are responsible for understanding and meeting their tax obligations. Different requirements can apply to landlords whose usual place of abode is outside the UK, including under the Non-resident Landlord Scheme. Independent tax advice should be sought where appropriate.
The Renters’ Rights Act has introduced significant changes to private renting in England. From 1 May 2026, assured shorthold tenancies moved to the new assured periodic tenancy system, including existing ASTs in most circumstances. The reforms also changed how tenancies can be ended, how rents can be increased and a number of other responsibilities for landlords and letting agents.
With the regulatory landscape continuing to evolve, landlords should make sure they understand the rules that apply to their property and tenancy. Alto can help landlords navigate the practical letting and management process and keep on top of the requirements involved in managing a rental property.
Government guidance provides further information for landlords and tenants about their respective rights and responsibilities throughout a tenancy. As requirements can change, landlords should always refer to the latest official guidance or seek appropriate professional advice where necessary.
We will arrange an accurate market appraisal of your property at a time convenient for you.
