Presenting your home
When letting your property one of the most important areas to consider is the condition and cleanliness, the better you present it, the quicker it will let. You must always think that there are other properties on the market at the same time, a fresh coat of paint and a spotless floor will decrease the risk of void periods.
Rates and Services
The payment of water rates, council tax, gas, electricity and telephone bills are generally the responsibility of the tenants.
Safety regulations
Regulations can be summarised as follows:
- Ensure the Annual Gas Safety Certificate is in place
- Ensure soft furnishings comply with current regulations
Redirect personal mail if required.
Repairs
You are responsible for all repairs to the property with the exception of window glass or other breakages caused by the tenants. Small repairs can be carried out by our contractors, or ones nominated by you, and their charges deducted from your account. We will always ask for instructions before commencing any large scale repairs.
Utilities
If appropriate, terminate utilities in your name (Council Tax, gas, electric, telephone, etc).
Income Tax
From the total rent received in a tax year you can normally deduct the following for tax purposes:
- Our fees
- Mortgage Interest
- Service charge
- Insurance
- Maintenance
You then pay tax on the remainder of the rent.
Insurance
We provide information and help on rent guarantee protection insurance, house building insurance and home contents insurance, all of which are important considerations when letting your home.
Inventory
Ensure that an inventory of contents is carried out at commencement and termination of the tenancy.
