10 steps to preparing your property to rent

10 steps to preparing your property to rent

1. Ensure all structural repairs are completed.

2. Use ‘tenant friendly’ décor. It is advisable to source neutral, plain or light-coloured paint/wallpaper as it appeals to a wider market and is easier to spot changes or damage at property inspections.

3. If the property is furnished you must ensure all furnishings have Fire Safety Regulation labels. If you are advertising as ‘unfurnished’ but are including kitchen appliances such as dishwasher/washing machine etc, decide if these will be included as part of the tenancy i.e. you as a landlord will be responsible for their maintenance or if they will be gifted to the tenants(for which a gifted letter will need to be signed).

4. Carry out a Gas Safety Check, Electrical Installation Condition Report, and an Energy Performance Certificate. IF there is a chimney within the property, you will also be required to have it swept before the tenancy commences.

5. Ensure all safety regulations are adhered to include fitting smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and secure any looped blind cords to a wall fixing.

6. Tidy the garden if applicable and ensure the lawn is cut and any plants are fairly low maintenance.

7. Undertake a thorough clean of the property – any prospective tenant will be agreeing to maintain the property to the same standard as when they moved in (except for normal ‘wear and tear’) therefore it is always in your interest to set the standard high!

8. Get spare keys cut. You will need a set per tenant (if more than one), one for yourself and one for your letting agent.

9. Arrange your landlord insurance, this can usually be done via your letting agent

10. Sit back and let your letting agent take it from there!