Starter Checklist for Landlords
❏ Safety First
Make sure there is a smoke alarm on every floor, a carbon monoxide detector wherever there is a solid fuel burning appliance and ensure the new tenants have a copy of the gas safety certificate.
❏ Energy Performance Certificate
Since 2008, all advertisements must include an EPC rating to show how energy efficient the property is
❏ Advertise Properly
Most people start their property search online these days, so make sure your advert is web friendly-short, snappy and with high quality photos
❏ Right to Rent Check
Since 2016, landlords must check the immigration status of prospective tenants to see whether they have the right to rent in the UK
❏ Reference your Tenants
Most reference checks include basic information, as well as employment details, bank statements and references from the current landlord
❏ Tenancy Agreement
This is the contract between tenant and landlord and includes details such as when the rent is due, duration of tenancy and notice periods
❏ Landlord Insurance
Make sure you have specialist insurance in place in case of damage to your property, some even protect rental payments
❏ Protect Deposits
By law every landlord must put the deposit they receive into a Government-backed tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days
❏ Clean Thoroughly
Make sure the property is clean and inviting and remove any personal effects.
❏ Conduct an Inventory
This is vital to make sure everything is as it should be. It also prevents possible disputes further down the line