Succeeding as a landlord

Preparing the Property

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.

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 home, and that they are receiving value for their money. It follows therefore that a well presented and maintained property in a 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.
• Fire Safety
  All properties must provide a fire blanket, carbon monoxide alarm (where required) and fire/smoke detection and alarm systems.
• 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 on any items provided.
• Personal items, ornaments etc.
  Personal possessions, ornaments, pictures, books etc. should be removed from the property, especially those of real or sentimental value. Some items may be boxed, sealed and stored in the loft at the owner’s risk. All cupboards and shelf space should be left clear for the Tenant’s 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 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. The cost of this may be negotiated with the tenants or in some case split between the parties.
• 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.
• Waste Collection
  This is usually the responsibility of the tenant and the law states they must have a legal way to dispose of their waste and proof of same
• 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 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.

Other Considerations

• Insurance
  You should ensure that you are suitably covered for letting under both your buildings and public liability insurance. Failure to inform your insurers may invalidate your policies.
• Utility accounts
  We will arrange for the transfer of utility accounts to the Tenant where the service provider will deal with a third party. Meter readings will be taken, allowing your closing gas and electricity accounts to be drawn up
• Income tax
  It is entirely the Landlords responsibility to inform the Revenue & Commissions of rental income received, and to pay any tax due.
  In the case of a Non Residential Landlord, we are obliged by law to withhold 20% of the rental income on behalf of Revenue.