Once we have agreed on a rental figure, marketing and service package we now need to prepare the property for marketing.
Making a good first impression to potential tenants is imperative to achieving a success let. A fresh lick of paint, de-cluttering rooms, tidying up the garden – all these things count! We will provide advice and when required we can also recommend our trusted contractors to carry out work.
In order to rent your property, there are several legal requirements. These will be discussed with you and we can agree on a schedule of works leading up to the date a tenant moves in. We are a Propertymark member, you can rest assured that we are fully up to date with the latest letting’s legislation, please see below the legal responsibilities’ landlords have:
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
All rental properties will require an EPC in order to commence marketing. An EPC gives tenants an indication of how energy efficient a property is. From 1 April 2018, all rented properties must have an EPC rating of at least “E”, unless the relevant exemption is in place. These reports are valid for 10 years.
Gas Safety Certificate
Landlords must have a certificate proving that gas appliances and supply points in the property are safe prior to the tenant moving in. This check must take place annually.
Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Alarms
All rental properties must have a smoke alarm on each level of the property and a carbon monoxide alarm in rooms where a solid fuel burner is present. It is also recommended to have a carbon monoxide tester in the room where the boiler is present.Legionnaire Risk Assessment
Legionella is a form of pneumonia that is caused by inhaling droplets of water containing Legionella bacteria. Whilst the risk is normally very low, landlords are responsible for minimizing the risk by carrying out an assessment.
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) & Portable Appliance Tests
Landlords must have a EICR carried out every 5 years to prove the internal electrics are safe for use. If the report shows any C1 or C2 faults, these must be resolved. We also recommend landlords carry out an annual PAT test on any electrical appliances provided for the tenants use.
House in multiple occupation (HMO) License
If you would like to rent the property to multiple sharers the house will be considered an HMO. The relevant council will have guidelines on the requirements and will issue a license if the property meets these. Please speak to a member of staff for more information.