Your rental property must meet certain safety and maintenance standards. Electrical, gas, plumbing, waste, central heating, and hot water systems must be safe, sound, and in good working order. The landlord is responsible for repairs and maintenance, except when misuse by the tenant can be established. Additionally, the interior decorations should be in good condition and preferably plain, light, and neutral. These measures ensure the safety and comfort of your tenants and help maintain the property’s value.

You have the flexibility to let your property fully furnished, part furnished, or unfurnished, depending on the type of property and local market conditions. We can provide advice on the appropriate level of furnishings for your property. At a minimum, you should consider providing decent quality carpets, curtains, and light fittings. It’s important to keep in mind that there will be wear and tear on the property and any items provided. Properly furnishing your property can attract tenants and potentially lead to higher rental income.

Personal possessions, ornaments, pictures, books, and similar items should generally be removed from the premises, especially those with real or sentimental value. Some items may be boxed, sealed, and stored in the loft at the owner’s risk. It’s essential to leave cupboards and shelf space clear for the tenant’s own use. Clearing the property of personal items helps create a welcoming and neutral space for tenants.

Gardens should be left neat, tidy, and free of rubbish, with lawns properly cut, at the start of the tenancy. Tenants are generally responsible for maintaining the garden to a reasonable standard, provided they have the necessary tools. However, if your garden is particularly large or you value its upkeep, you may wish to arrange visits by our regular gardener through us.

At the beginning of the tenancy, the property must be thoroughly clean, and it’s the tenants’ responsibility to leave the property in a similar clean condition at the end of their tenancy. If tenants fail to do so, cleaning will be arranged at their expense.

It’s helpful to leave information for the tenant, such as instructions on operating the central heating and hot water system, the washing machine, the alarm system, and details like the day for refuse collection. Providing this information ensures a smooth transition for tenants and helps them settle into the property more easily.

You should provide one set of keys for each tenant. If we are managing the property, we will arrange to have duplicates cut as required to ensure proper access and security.