Landlords, We Aim to Let Your Property Fast
You can be assured that your investment will be in professional and caring hands. Contact us today – [email protected]
Letting your property, especially for the first time, can be a daunting experience. With this in mind, our primary goal is to provide you, the landlord, with the best possible service and to secure the right tenant for your property.
We understand that your property is one of your most valuable assets. By instructing us as your letting and management agents, you can be assured that your investment will be in professional and caring hands.
A Personal Service
As a small firm, we offer a personal, attentive service while maintaining high standards of professionalism and expertise.
Competitive Rates
Our fees are competitive and may be negotiable, depending on the level of service required. We are particularly committed to investment landlords and offer cost-saving options for even the smallest property portfolios.
Carefully Selected Tenants
We maintain an up-to-date register of prospective tenants, all of whom undergo thorough reference and credit checks. In some cases, a guarantor may also be required.
Levels of Service Offered
Full Management
This is our most comprehensive service, which includes:
- Marketing the property and conducting viewings to secure a suitable tenant.
- Tenant vetting through background checks and references.
- Preparing the tenancy agreement and, if required, an inventory.
- Tenant check-in against the inventory.
- Periodic inspections to ensure the property is well maintained.
- Managing maintenance issues as per the Management Agreement.
- Collecting and processing rental payments, with funds credited directly to the landlord’s account.
- End-of-tenancy management, including renewals, check-outs, and re-advertising if necessary.
This service is ideal for landlords who do not reside locally or prefer a hands-off approach.
Letting Only
Our Letting Only service includes:
- Marketing the property and conducting viewings.
- Tenant vetting through background checks and references.
- Preparing the tenancy agreement and, if required, an inventory.
- Collection of the first month’s rent and deposit, which will be credited to the landlord (minus our fee).
After this, the landlord assumes responsibility for managing the tenancy, including maintenance and rent collection.
Our Fees
We offer a competitive fee structure with potential discounts for landlords with multiple properties. Contact us to discuss your specific requirements.
Insurance
As appointed introducers for several insurance companies, we can offer a range of landlord insurance policies, including:
- Buildings Insurance
- Contents Insurance
- Rent Guarantee
- Legal Expenses Cover
Guide for Landlords
Before letting a property, landlords must address several key aspects to ensure a smooth tenancy and compliance with legal requirements. Below is a summary of important considerations.
Preparing the Property
A well-presented, well-maintained property attracts better tenants and higher rent. Tenants are more likely to respect a property in good condition.
General Condition
- Electrical, gas, plumbing, waste, central heating, and hot water systems must be safe and in good working order.
- Repairs and maintenance are the landlord’s responsibility unless misuse is evident.
- Interior decoration should be in good condition, ideally in neutral tones.
Furnishings
Properties can be let fully furnished, part-furnished, or unfurnished. The appropriate option depends on the market and tenant demand. As a minimum, properties should include carpets, curtains, and light fittings.
Personal Items and Décor
- Remove personal possessions, valuables, and sentimental items.
- Leave storage space for tenants’ belongings.
Gardens
- Should be tidy and well-maintained.
- Tenants are expected to maintain gardens if provided with tools, but landlords may wish to arrange professional gardening services for larger properties.
Cleaning
Properties should be professionally cleaned before a new tenancy begins. Tenants are responsible for returning the property in the same condition at the end of the tenancy.
Tenant Information
Providing an information pack (e.g., appliance instructions, refuse collection schedules) is recommended.
Keys
- One set of keys should be provided for each tenant.
- If we are managing the property, we will arrange for duplicates as required.
Other Considerations
Mortgage & Leaseholds
- If the property is mortgaged, obtain written consent from your lender.
- Leaseholders should check lease terms and obtain necessary permissions.
Insurance
- Ensure your buildings and contents insurance covers rental use.
- Failure to inform insurers may void policies.
Bills & Utilities
- Arrange for standing orders/direct debits for recurring charges.
- If we are managing the property, we can handle certain bill payments on your behalf.
Council Tax & Utilities
- We will manage the transfer of Council Tax and utility accounts to tenants.
- Landlords and tenants must handle British Telecom accounts directly.
Income Tax
- UK landlords must declare rental income to HMRC and pay applicable tax.
- Non-UK residents must obtain an exemption certificate to receive rental income without tax deductions.
Inventory
An inventory and condition report is essential to prevent disputes at the end of a tenancy. We can arrange this service upon request.
Legal Requirements
Gas Safety
Landlords must obtain an annual Gas Safety Certificate from a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Electrical Safety
While not legally required for all rented properties, an Electrical Safety Certificate is strongly recommended.
Fire & Furnishings
All upholstered furniture must comply with Fire Safety Regulations (1988, amended 1989 & 1993).
Smoke Alarms
- Properties built since 1992 must have mains-powered smoke detectors.
- While not legally required in older homes, we strongly recommend installing smoke alarms on each floor.
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMO)
- If a property is rented to five or more tenants from different households on three or more floors, a local authority HMO license is required.
- Additional management regulations may apply to smaller HMOs.
Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
Landlords must maintain properties to meet safety standards under HHSRS regulations.
Tenancy Deposit Protection
All deposits for Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) must be protected by an approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme.
Disability Discrimination Act 2005
Landlords must make reasonable adjustments to accommodate tenants with disabilities.
Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
Properties offered for rent must have a valid EPC, which lasts for 10 years. We can arrange an EPC inspection upon request.
This is a brief overview of landlords’ responsibilities and rental regulations. If you need further clarification, please contact us. We look forward to assisting you with your letting and property management needs.
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