Renting

For Landlords:

Now you have decided to rent out your home there are a number of things to be considered.

How much rent to charge.
Whether to rent your property furnished or unfurnished.
Tenancy Agreement.
Inventory.
Will you except pets.
Building insurance.
Relevant safety certification; electrical, gas, current fire regulations etc.
Whether to take a deposit. If you require a deposit you will need to join a deposit scheme. Click here for more information.

Important information for Landlords: From 1st October 2008, if you are renting out your property, you will need to provide a certificate to any prospective tenant. There is no need to obtain a EPC for an existing tenancy.

Rental charge:
Look at similar properties in your area that are for rent, this can be via letting's agencies, estate agents and property papers.

If you think your property is worth more in rental value than your competitors, justify this in your description.

Advertising your property:
Prepare your property for potential tenants to visit:

Gather any safety certificates for Gas and Electricity make copies to give the tenant.
If the property is to be let furnished you need to ensure that the furniture complies with the current fire regulations - 1988 Fire and Safety regulations. Click here for more information.
Take photos of the property - these can be added your ehomes-4u renting page, but also will record the condition of the property prior to the tenants moving in.
Ensure that the correct number of smoke detectors are installed - and replace the batteries..
Prepare a tenancy agreement. Free download in your member area under reports, accessible once a package has been ordered.
Ensure the property is free from clutter i.e. children's toys .
Ensure the decoration is to a good standard - neutral colours are best .
Clean the carpets – your tenant should be informed whether they are required to have them cleaned again before moving out.
Tidy the gardens - cut grass and tend the borders, remember the front of the house is what potential tenants will see first .
Open windows and spray air freshener.

Meeting potential tenants:

Show them a copy of the safety certificates and tenancy agreement.
Explain about local amenities - parks, schools, restaurants and point out roads and railway stations.
Ask for references from previous landlords.
Ask about their background - their job and why are they looking to move.
Explain how much the bills are - gas, water, electricity council tax, if it is a flat are there communal charges that are not included in the rent.
Show the inventory list.
Let the potential tenant enter a room first, particularly if it a small room - perhaps wait out side.
Explain how often you will be round to check on the property and contents.

Prior to the tenants occupation:

Ensure both parities have signed the tenancy agreement.
Ensure the tenant fully understands what is and what isn’t covered by the rent.
Ensure both parties sign the inventory.
Ensure the tenants deposit scheme is in place and all relevant information is passed on to the tenant.

Once the tenant has moved in, ensure you keep regular contact and visit when you say you will. Remembering that it is their home so always knock the door.

This is a guide only, you should contact a solicitor to discuss all legislation relating to renting your home.