Preparing your Property to Let
At Glenham Property we deliver a high quality service to both our landlords and our tenants. As such we expect the properties we let to be in a respectable condition. Below are some useful hints about preparing your property for the rental market.
State of Repair
Ensure that your property is clean and decorated to a standard that will appeal to the masses. If you are refurbishing your property, especially for the rental market, neutral colours are the most appealing.
Paintwork should withstand approx. 3 – 5 years living, however we would expect any touch ups if necessary between tenancies.
Work surfaces that require little or no maintenance are preferred.
Hard wearing flooring is also a good idea. This can be anything from traditional sanded floor-boards, to robust carpets or hardwood flooring. Again, neutral colours are recommended and avoid colours that will easily stain if opting for carpet.
Kitchen and White Goods
A large fridge freezer and a washing machine, in good working condition, are a must. Dishwashers, microwaves and tumble driers are highly favourable but not essential. We recommend that all white goods are free standing (with the exception of oven and hob) as the cost of repair is usually much lower than that of integrated appliances. The kitchen must be well equipped with utensils, such as; kettle, toaster, pots, pans, cutlery and crockery – all of which must be in a hygienic condition.
An extractor fan above the oven is recommended and should be thoroughly cleaned before the new tenant moves in.
An iron and ironing board along with a hoover are also expected by many tenants.
Bathroom
It is essential that the bathroom is clean and hygienic; any grout or silicone should be thoroughly cleaned or, if necessary, replaced for the new tenant. An effective power source for the shower is essential. Baths are not critical, but often looked upon favourably.
A tiled or vinyl floor is preferential to carpet for hygiene reasons.
Even if a window allowing for natural ventilation is present, an extractor fan is recommended as this can help avoid problems that often arise from condensation.
Furniture and Furnishings
Furnished: a prospective tenant will expect the following items when moving into a furnished property; beds and wardrobes, sofa, dining table and chairs, kitchen utensils, white goods, floor and window coverings. Furniture should be clean and matching furniture is looked upon favourably by prospective tenants.
Unfurnished: within this category the landlord is expected to provide white goods and floor and window coverings.
Part-furnished: another option that allows both landlord and tenant greater flexibility.
All furniture must comply with the Fire and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations 1988, as amended 1989 & 1993. Most goods made after 1990 should comply and most will have a visible safety label attached.
Read our pros and cons of unfurnished vs furnished to help you decide.
Utilities
Before renting out a property you must decide whether you will include utilities within the monthly rental or whether the tenant will be responsible for this. This will be clearly stated in the tenancy agreement. Although not essential, gas central heating is looked upon favourably by prospective tenants.
Health and Safety
It is a legal requirement that all rental properties must comply with specific safety guidelines. A Gas Safety Test must be carried out annually, as must a PAT (Portable Appliance Test). The testing of fixed wiring should be carried out every 5 years and an EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report) produced.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) must be presented with all properties let after 4th Jan 2009. The certificate is valid for a period of 10 years after which it must be renewed. Check your Scottish Home Report as this is often included.
Please contact us for a comprehensive list of health and safety requirements.
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