Preparing the Property to Let
From many years of experience we have found that a good relationship with tenants is the key to a effective running tenancy. As agents we feel it is important that the tenants should feel comfortable in their home.
Preparing the Property to Let
DECORATIONS
We recommend that all interior decorations should be in a good condition and preferably plain, light and neutral. A bright and well presented property will attract more prospective tenants.
It is at the Landlords discretion if after the tenancy has begun a tenant is allowed to redecorate at their expense. If a tenant is allowed to redecorate as agents we insist that decorating colour chart is given to us so that we can make according notes on the inventory.
CLEANING
At the commencement of a tenancy, the property should be in a clean condition. At the end of a tenancy it is the tenant’s responsibility to leave the property in a similar condition. If a tenant does not leave it in a similar condition to when the tenancy began cleaning costs will be deducted from their deposit.
FURNISHINGS & APPLIANCES
It is recommended that you leave only minimum furnishings and appliances and these should be of reasonable quality. If appliances such as washing machines, fridge freezers, cookers, dishwashers, are to be left within the property a qualified contractor must test them for safety. Repairs and maintenance of furnishing and appliances are at the Landlord’s expense unless misuse by the tenant can be established.
PERSONAL ITEMS
Personal possessions, ornaments, pictures, books, etc. should be removed from the property, especially those of sentimental value. Items may be boxed and stored in the loft at the owner’s risk.
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. We feel it vital to advise that very few tenants are experienced gardeners and if you value your garden or if it is particularly large, you may wish us to arrange at your expense regular visits by a gardener.
INFORMATION FOR THE TENANT
It is always helpful if a tenant has information on the operating of the central heating and hot water system, the day the bins are collected, alarm system etc.
MAIL FORWARDING
If you are living at the property prior to it being rented we recommend that you make use of the Post Office redirection service. Although many tenants will drop post into our office it is not the their responsibility to do so.
INSURANCE
As Landlord you are responsible for the building and accordingly the buildings insurance and advising the insurance company of the proposal to let the property.
The company that we use to carry out our reference and credit checking, Homelet, offer a Landlords insurance. It is a unique comprehensive policy designed for private or professional Landlords which can cover all of the risks associated with letting a property. The policy helps to protect your investment by providing buildings cover, contents cover and limited contents for part furnished properties. As agents we can put you in touch with Homelet should you wish to obtain a quote.
KEYS
We require three sets of keys to the property. One set will be handed to the tenant on occupation and the other will be retained in the office for inspections, emergencies and repairs. Note: If you wish to use or collect these keys at any time you must bring proof of identification as a security measure as not all of our staff members may have met you.
