Guide to Letting Property
When you let your residential property the tenancy will now automatically be an assured shorthold tenancy, unless you specifically agree another form of tenancy in writing. This guarantees you a right to get your property back after 6 months, and before 6 months if the tenant does not pay the rent, owing you at least 8 weeks rent. Tenants can also be evicted if they cause a nuisance to neighbours or damage the property.
Prepare Your Property For Letting
Present your property in a good condition, with everything clean and tidy. With more people in the letting market you need to try a little harder to put your property in prime position.
Viewings and Vetting
It will normally take several viewings before you find a suitable tenant so be patient. For good advice on vetting your prospective tenants try www.landlordzone.co.uk where you will also find lots of general information on letting.
As a Landlord you are responsible for:
- Annual Safety inspection for gas appliances
- General repairs to the structure of the property
- General safety of furnishings and furniture that you provide
- Building insurance and contents insurance for your own contents, but not the tenants' contents
The tenant is responsible for:-
- Paying the rent as and when agreed
- Generally paying the council tax and utility bills, including water rates
- Keeping the property in good repair and condition
- Arranging insurance for their own contents
Managing the Property
Remember to check that the rental is paid when due and be prepared to act immediately if it is not. Deal with rent arrears immediately.
Regular inspections of tenanted properties are essential. It allows you to check that the property is being properly looked after.