Helpful Information for LandlordsChoosing a letting agent

You’ll have many things on your mind once you’ve decided to let your property. Whilst our managed service takes care of the main day-to-day worries, here are a few tips to get you started.

Pre-Letting

  • Apply for your mortgage lenders consent; failure to do so would be a breach of your mortgage agreement.
  • Insurance – you must notify your insurance company of your intention to let. This may result in an increase to your premiums; if this is the case then we would be more than happy to provide an alternative quotation.
  • Obtain Gas and Electrical Safety Certificates. We can help arrange these if you prefer.
  • Carry out any necessary repairs and prepare the property to ensure it is left clean and tidy as you would expect to find it yourself. A well-presented property is more likely to be cared for by your tenant.
  • Decide what furniture and fittings are to be left at the property and ensure that furnishings to be left comply with fire regulations.
  • Speak to your accountant about your tax liabilities. Rental income is taxable and you are required to declare the income on your tax return. You will be taxed on rental income less any allowable expenses.
  • Overseas landlords should apply for a tax exemption certificate.

Tenant Application Received

  • Remove all personal items and property ensuring that any left behind are compliant with fire regulations.
  • Ensure the property is clean and the grounds and gardens are tidy and presentable.
  • Inform your existing utility companies of the date of the new tenancy. This should include your electricity, gas and water suppliers, the local council (council tax) any telephone utility company supplying your property. Remember, that although Bartons will collect meter readings, it is advisable to take your own and let the relevant utility companies know.
  • Arrange redirection of your post if necessary via the Post Office.
  • Have available all instruction manuals or leaflets, in English, and they must be left at the property for all the appliances including the Central Heating Boiler and systems before a schedule of Condition and Inventory can be taken. It is advisable to retain a copy for your own future reference in case they get lost or mislaid. By Law, copies of these must be given to each tenant at the commencement of any Tenancy.
  • Let us have 3 separate sets of keys.
  • Ensure that any insurance is put into force such as Buildings and Contents, Rent Indemnity and Legal Protection Cover. Should you require help or assistance with this please ask.
  • Last of all please ensure the central heating pilot light is lit.

Contact Barton Real Estates