Renting out a house or flat can build your wealth and be immensely rewarding, but you’ll need to make sure your property is both legally compliant and safe. First-time landlords and those with decades of experience must ensure their properties are suitable for tenants to avoid potential legal action.
Below, we’ll cover preparing your rental property, covering safety checks, legal documents, presentation tips, and professional support.
Get Your Legal and Safety Requirements in Order
Before listing your property, you need to meet all legal obligations set by UK law. As a landlord, you are responsible for getting the certifications that confirm that your property is a safe and habitable living space.
You’ll need to provide tenants with a copy of the Gas Safety Certificate you receive from a registered Gas Safe engineer. They must inspect any gas appliances, including boilers and ovens, annually. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates your property’s energy efficiency. You must have a valid EPC rated E or above before renting.
For your Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), a qualified electrician must inspect the fixed wiring of your property at least every five years. Provide your tenants with a copy of the report.
On each floor of the home, you need to install working smoke alarms. In any room with a solid fuel-burning appliance, like a wood-burning stove, you are obliged to install a carbon monoxide detector. You should bear in mind that some local councils require landlords to register or obtain a licence, particularly for Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), so check with your local authority.
Make the Property Clean, Functional and Appealing
How you present your property will play a crucial role in attracting reliable tenants and securing competitive rent. A well-maintained home signals your professionalism as a landlord and can help reduce void periods.
Take the time to thoroughly clean the property, either by doing it yourself or hiring a cleaning agency. It should be cleaned throughout, including carpets, windows, kitchen appliances, and bathrooms. You should also repair any broken or malfunctioning appliances. Small maintenance jobs can make a big difference in a tenant’s first impression, whether it’s fixing a dripping tap or squeaky doors.
For the decor, sticking to neutral colours for walls and floors is a safe choice. It makes rooms feel brighter and more spacious, and easier for tenants to personalise. Replace any dim bulbs and remove unnecessary furniture to make the space feel larger and more inviting.
Prepare Key Documents and Plan for Tenant Management
Having your paperwork in order not only protects your interests but also ensures a smooth experience for your tenants. Use a professionally drafted Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement to outline responsibilities, rent terms, and notice periods.
You’ll need to record the state of the property and its contents in an inventory and condition reports before your tenants arrive, as it will come in handy for resolving any disputes at the end of the tenancy. You’re also legally required to place your tenant’s deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days.
Engaging with real estate lawyers ensures that your tenancy agreements and licenses are accurate and compliant. They will help you handle any disputes, which can be especially beneficial if you’re managing multiple properties or handling commercial lets.
