Getting Started as a Landlord

Check you're allowed to let

• Consent to let from your mortgage lender, or a buy-to-let mortgage in place.
• Freeholder or leaseholder permission where the property is leasehold.
• Landlord insurance — standard residential cover is usually not sufficient.
• Selective or additional licensing requirements with the local authority.

Prepare the property properly

A clean, well-presented, well-maintained property lets faster and attracts better tenants. Deal with repairs before marketing, decorate in neutral shades, and decide whether you are letting furnished, part-furnished or unfurnished.

Set the right rent

Overpricing costs more in void weeks than it ever gains in rent. We price on current evidence — comparable lets, demand for your property type and the time of year — and explain how we got there.

Choose your level of service

• Tenant find: marketing, viewings, referencing and the tenancy agreement.
• Rent collection: the above, plus rent processing and arrears chasing.
• Fully managed: day-to-day management, maintenance, inspections and renewals handled for you.

Get the paperwork right from day one

• Gas safety certificate, EICR and EPC in place and in date.
• Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms fitted and tested.
• Deposit protected in an approved scheme within the statutory timescale.
• Prescribed information and the How to Rent guide served correctly.
• Right to rent checks completed for every adult occupier.

Think about tax and record keeping

Rental income is taxable and should be declared. Keep records of rent received, agent fees, repairs, insurance and finance costs. Your portal statements make this straightforward, but do take advice from an accountant on your own position.