If you have a freehold property with no mortgage on it, there should be no barriers to letting it out to tenants. If you have a leasehold property however, you must check your lease in connection with sub-letting and obtain the necessary consent if required. If you have a mortgage on your property, consent may also be needed from your lender.
You’ll need to make sure both the property and its contents are fully insured. This is normally provided for in the Tenancy Agreement. You must inform your insurance company that the property is to be let, check that the conditions of the policy are complied with and that there are no restrictions on letting.
As a general rule, tenants are responsible for paying all gas, electricity, telephone, water and council tax bills during their tenancy. However, you can make exceptions which should be covered in the Tenancy Agreement.
We recommend that you create a detailed inventory for every tenancy. We can help you find a professional freelance inventory clerk who can do this swiftly and efficiently. This kind of agreement protects both you and your tenants. Under the terms of the Tenancy Agreement, the tenant must return the property and contents in the same state and condition as recorded in the inventory, fair wear and tear excepted. If you do want to make a claim for damages, the inventory will form the basis for any action.
For further information on our terms & conditions please
contact lbrown@dng.co.uk or call 020 7581 6666
