Ask The Experts - 10 Tips For Landlords Getting Your Property Ready To Rent this Autumn
October 2024
Ask The Experts -
10 Tips For Landlords Getting Your Property Ready To Rent this Autumn
Kerr and Co are pleased to report the Autumn Rental Market is busy with new quality properties coming onto the market every week. There is still high demand and with more good quality properties coming on to the market there is a larger selection for tenants than there was in 2023. So if you are landlord looking to rent out your property the autumn months now certainly an excellant time as we have a number of great quality tenants looking to move before Christmas. Our Lettings and Property Management team are highly qualified and can give guidance to all our landlords to insure they get the best tenants for their property at the best rent .
To help Kerr and Co have listed 10 point check list of essential jobs to do as the weather gets colder and evenings get longer. Its advisable to be be prepared, proactive and plan ahead about what needs to be done, so that your property is let without any delays.
1. Check the Boiler and Gas Safety Certificate
Gas and oil boilers should be serviced once a year by a qualified heating engineer. As we enter the colder months now is the perfect time to have the boiler serviced. Boiler servicing can be undertaken separately to a gas safety check, once done a certificate can be issued.
2. Ensure Your Electrical Certificate is Up To Date
All rented properties now require an Electrical Installation Condition Report to be carried out every five years. You will also need to provide a copy to your tenant within 30 days of the certificate being issued.
3. Essential Maintenance and DIY Jobs Done
Any outstanding maintenace jobs should be done as the cold weather approaches. Check the guttering and downpipes, looking for draughts, and sealing any cracks in the walls. Any cracks in walls, around doors and windows, where the wind or water will only get worse during the winter.
4. Condensation
Condensation and mould are common in rental properties so anything to prevent these is essential maintenance. Making tenants are aware of the importance of ventilating the property by opening windows and making use of extractor fans. If the tenants are not managing the building up of condensation, remind them they can call the property management team for support.
5. Ventilation
Extractor fans and dehumidifiers, can help ventilate smaller rooms such as bathrooms. Its important that tenants keep these clean from dirt, dust and grime are removed from the fan to make sure that they efficiently.
6. Check Your Gutters
As leaves start to fall its a good time to clean out and inspect the gutters before it gets dark. A blocked gutter might seem like a trivial problem at first, but they can cause serious damage to the brickwork of the property if left unchecked. Check with your agent as some tenancy agreements ask tenants to be responsible for the gutters and that they are cleared. This is where property managers can help as they can instruct someone to clear the gutters and downpipes. Property managers can also provide the details of an approved list of contractors that can help.
7. Test Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be tested once a month to ensure that the alarms are working properly. Tenants should do this once the tenancy agreement has started and can be done this very easily, if there are any issues then the tenant is liable and must report any issues to the landlord. or managing agent so it can be dealt with effectively and efficiently.
8. Check the Roof and Loft Space
With climate change and adverse weather conditions becoming more common there is a chance that storms, rain, the cold temperatures, ice and snow of winter will do further damage. Check the property on all sides of the outside of wear and tear or possible hazards. Take photos of anything you are unsure of and get advice ,
9. Heating Systems
It is important to make sure that gas and oil powered heating systems are properly serviced. With the on going cost of living and rising energy bills and the impact of rising costs. Setting the timer at a sensible temperature can help tenants with their bills as gas and electricity normally raise concerns for the tenant. Giving clear guidance and instruction will help them.
10. Outside Maintenance and Lighting
Tending to the garden and outside space is just as important as the interior. Whether the property has a garden, courtyard or balcony, ensuring exterior is in good condition before that tenancy starts is essential to avoid any misunderstandings . If you have outside security lighting or garden lights ensure that the bulbs are working and in good order. Tenants are normally responsible for keeping the garden neat and tidy, with green foliage and weeds to be kept under control during the tenancy period. Be clear with tenants that they need to report any maintenance issues to prevent any incurring additional costs or lost of deposit at the end of the tenancy due to lack of maintenance and care .
For more information help and advise for landlords
National Residential Landlords Association
British Landlord Association
For more information and assistance on renting your property contact Andrew in our Lettings Department on 0208 743 1166 or email [email protected]