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Guide to Lettings: Preparing Your Property with Fisher Estates
At Fisher Estates, we understand that a successful tenancy begins with a well-prepared property and a positive landlord-tenant relationship. Our experience shows that tenants are more likely to respect and care for a property that is well-presented, maintained, and thoughtfully arranged, which in turn contributes to a smoother tenancy and can help achieve a higher rental income.
Preparing the Property
A welcoming, comfortable home encourages tenants to feel at ease, while also reflecting value for money. As your dedicated property managers, we focus on maintaining a strong relationship with tenants, but the condition of your property is crucial. Ensuring it is clean, tidy, and in good decorative order sets the tone for a successful tenancy.
Furnishings
Properties can be let fully furnished, part-furnished, or unfurnished, depending on the property type and local market trends. Fisher Estates can advise on the optimal approach and level of furnishings. At a minimum, carpets, curtains, and light fittings should be provided to a good standard, keeping in mind that normal wear and tear will occur.
Gardens
Gardens should be neat, tidy, and free of rubbish, with lawns cut. While tenants are expected to maintain gardens to a reasonable standard, many may have limited gardening experience. If your garden is valuable, large, or particularly intricate, we can arrange periodic visits by our trusted gardeners to maintain its condition.
General Condition
All essential systems, including electrical, gas, plumbing, central heating, and hot water, must be safe, functional, and in good working order. Repairs and routine maintenance are generally the landlord’s responsibility unless damage results from tenant misuse. Interior décor should be in good condition, preferably plain, light, and neutral, to appeal to a broad range of tenants.
Personal Items
All personal possessions, ornaments, and items of sentimental or monetary value should be removed. Where appropriate, some items may be safely stored on the premises at the landlord’s risk. Cupboards and shelf space should be left clear for tenants’ use.
Cleaning
Properties should be thoroughly cleaned before the tenancy begins. At the end of each tenancy, tenants are responsible for leaving the property in similar condition. Where this is not met, Fisher Estates will organise cleaning at the tenant’s expense.
Landlord Guide
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
Obtain and display an EPC to show the property’s energy efficiency rating.
Fire Safety
Install smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide alarms in rooms with solid fuel appliances. Ensure all furniture and furnishings comply with fire safety standards
Gas Safety Certificate
Have all gas appliances and fittings checked annually by a registered Gas Safe engineer. Provide tenants with a valid Gas Safety Certificate.
Electrical Safety
Conduct an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) every five years to ensure all electrical installations are safe.
Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)
Ensure the property is free from hazards as defined by the HHSRS, which covers risks such as damp, mould, and inadequate heating.
Right to Rent Check
Right to Rent Check
Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
Your property is an HMO if both of the following apply:
- At least 3 tenants live there, forming more than one household.
- Toilet, bathroom or kitchen facilities are shared.
- Household Definition: A household consists of either a single person or members of the same family who live together, including married or cohabiting couples.
- If your property meets the HMO criteria, it may need a specific license. Ensure it meets additional safety standards, including fire alarms, extinguishers and escape routes.
Property Preparation
Cleaning and Repairs
Thoroughly clean the property and complete any necessary repairs, such as fixing leaks or broken fixtures.
Decoration and Maintenance
Neutralise the decor to appeal to a broader range of tenants. Ensure the property is well-lit and all maintenance tasks are up to date.
Garden and Outdoor Spaces
Tidy up gardens and outdoor areas, including cutting grass, trimming hedges and removing any rubbish.
Introduction Only – 120% inc VAT of 1st months rent
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Introduction and Full Management – 70% inc VAT of 1st Months Rent 12% inc VAT of rent per month
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Deposit Registration
£60
Inventory/ Check In/ Check Out
£168
Energy Performance Certificate
£120
Gas Safety Certificate
£125
E.I.C.R (Electric Report)
£240
Anti Money Laundering Check
£35
Rent Rise Negotiation and Notices
£240
Whether you are looking to sell, buy or just need advice on the market, Fisher Estates is here to help.
Using our contact form is the quickest and most convenient way to get in touch with us. It ensures that your enquiry is directed to the right team member who can best assist you. Plus, it allows us to gather all the necessary information upfront, so we can response promptly and efficiently, addressing your needs accurately from the start. Fill out our contact form today, and let us help you on your move.