If your property is mortgaged, you typically need to obtain written consent from your mortgage lender before letting it out. The lender may require additional clauses in the tenancy agreement, so it’s important to inform your property management company or agent about this requirement.

Yes, you can rent out your leasehold property, but it’s essential to review the terms of your lease first. Some leases may have restrictions or require you to obtain written consent from the freeholder or management company before letting the property. Always check your lease agreement and seek any necessary permissions before proceeding.

You should ensure that your buildings and contents insurance covers letting your property. Failing to inform your insurers about your intention to rent it out may invalidate your policies. If you need guidance on insurance options, we can provide information on Landlords Legal Protection, Rent Guarantee Cover, and Landlords Contents and Buildings Insurance.

It’s recommended to set up standing orders or direct debits for regular outgoings like service charges and maintenance contracts. If we manage your property, we can, by prior written agreement, make certain bill payments on your behalf, provided they are received in your name at our office, and you have sufficient funds available.

We will arrange for the transfer of Council Tax and utility accounts to the tenant. Meter readings will be taken to facilitate the closing of gas and electricity accounts. While we can handle these matters, please note that British Telecom will require instructions directly from both the landlord and the tenant.

If you are a resident in the UK, it is your responsibility to inform the Revenue & Customs of rental income received and pay any tax due. Non-UK resident landlords may need an exemption certificate from the Revenue & Customs to receive rental balances without tax deductions. When we manage your property, we can provide guidance and assistance with applying for such exemption.

An inventory of contents and a schedule of condition are crucial to avoid misunderstandings or disputes at the end of a tenancy. Without these safeguards, it becomes challenging for the landlord to prove any loss, damage, or significant deterioration of the property or contents. We can arrange for a staff member to prepare an inventory and schedule of condition if required, as specified in our Agency Agreement.

Most tenancies are automatically Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) if the annual rent is under £100,000 and the property is let to private individuals. These tenancies usually have an initial fixed term of 6 to 12 months. After the fixed term expires, the landlord can regain possession of the property by giving the tenant two months’ written notice. New rules for gaining possession via Section 21 apply to tenancies created on or after 1 October 2015. For more details, please speak to one of our representatives.