10 top tips for new Landlords

1. Decide if you are renting your property furnished or unfurnished

Either option is acceptable but be in a position to clarify this to any potential tenants to make it clear what they will / won’t need prior to moving in. 

2. Present the Property well for Marketing

Prior to placing your rental property on the market ensure it is presented well; Does it need a lick of paint to brighten/freshen it up? Are there any items of furniture that are worn / broken / gone past their sell by date? Are the mattresses in good condition? Is the exterior of the property maintained and presented well – painting, gutters cleaned, grass/lawns cut? 

3. Ensure the Property is Clean

Give your property a good, deep clean prior to showing potential tenants. This should include getting the carpets cleaned if required, ensuring all white goods and appliances cleaned well ie. Fridge-freezer, oven, hob, washer/dryers, microwaves, etc. 

Wardrobes and bathrooms should also be fully cleaned. 

First impressions are extremely important and this also sets an example of how you would like you’re property kept and maintained for the duration of the tenancy. The property should be returned in the same condition as it was handed over. 

4. Ensure all appliances are in good working order

Appliances such as white goods/ovens/hobs/electric showers/timeclocks/thermostats etc. should all be checked to ensure they are safe and functional to use. 

If not, get these items fixed prior to the tenant moving in. This will make the move in period a much smoother and hassle-free process.

5. Service your boiler

It is extremely important to keep your boiler in safe, working order. Have this checked out with a professional and ensure it is serviced to confirm same. 

Boiler services should be carried out on a yearly basis. 

6. Fire Safety

Ensure all fire safety items required by law are in place – smoke alarms, carbon monoxide alarms, fire blanket and fire extinguisher. 

7. Ventilation

You’re rental property should have adequate ventilation throughout to prevent build-up of condensation/mould. 

8. Leaks/Exposed Wires

If there are any existing leaks, ensure to have these examined and repaired by a professional. This should also be done for any exposed wires – they can often catch the attention of a potential tenant, causing concern, when viewing the property. 

9. Inventory

Keep a written record of the items that you are leaving in the property as part of the tenancy and lease agreement ie. Beds, wardrobes, tv stand, coffee table, dining table & chairs, pictures, curtains, etc. 

This should be crossed checked at the end of the tenancy prior to the tenant moving out and return of deposit. A detailed inventory can help prevent disputes at this stage. 

10. Landlord Insurance

Arrange the right insurance cover to ensure maximum protection.

About the author

Maria is a landlord’s best friend. She looks after all our rental properties and if you have any questions you would like to ask her to get in touch here