All about lettings
Thinking of letting your property? Whether you’re an experienced landlord or considering your first buy-to-let, renting out your property can feel overwhelming without the right guidance. Our lettings guide breaks the process into 10 straightforward steps, helping you prepare, comply with legal requirements, and find the right tenants with confidence.
From preparing your property and choosing the right tenants to understanding your legal responsibilities and deciding whether to use a management service, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Key Takeaways
- Preparing your property properly helps attract reliable tenants and achieve the best rent.
- Landlords must meet all legal requirements, including safety checks and deposit registration.
- Decide whether to manage your property yourself or through an agent.
- Strong marketing ensures your property reaches the right tenants at the right time.
Flexibility and organisation make the letting process smoother and less stressful.
Step 1: Understand your goals as a landlord
Before starting, consider what you want from the let. Do you prefer long-term tenants for stability, or are you open to short-term or multiple occupants? Are you happy to allow pets or sharers? Having clear objectives helps us match you with the right tenants.
Step 2: Prepare your property for rental
The condition of your property has a direct impact on the rent achieved and the quality of tenant it attracts. Make sure you:
- Declutter and clean the property.
- Carry out repairs and safety checks.
- Refresh tired décor to appeal to tenants.
- Ensure gardens and outdoor areas are tidy.
View the property as tenants would, aiming to present it neutrally and well maintained.
Step 3: Get the paperwork in order
Several documents are legally required before you can let your property, including:
- Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
- Gas Safety Certificate (renewed annually).
- Electrical Safety Report (valid for 5 years).
- Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, correctly fitted and tested.
- Building Regulation approvals for any alterations.
You must also have mortgage lender or freeholder consent if applicable. Preparing these early avoids delays once a tenant is found.
Step 4: Set the right rental price
A realistic rental price attracts interest quickly and reduces void periods. We recommend comparing with similar local properties and obtaining a professional valuation from an agent with knowledge of the Billericay market.
Step 5: Decide on management
Managing a property requires time and quick responses to tenant issues. Ask yourself whether you have reliable contractors and the availability to handle calls about maintenance, repairs, or emergencies. If not, a fully managed service ensures everything is handled on your behalf, from inspections to compliance.
Step 6: Market your property
Timing is key. Launch your property around six to eight weeks before your preferred move-in date. Your agent should use professional photography, floorplans, and listing portals to showcase your property. At Ashton White, we combine this with targeted marketing and knowledge of our applicant base to find you the right tenant.
Step 7: Tenant referencing and agreements
Once a tenant is found, full references are carried out. This includes credit checks, employment verification, and rental history. When satisfactory, we prepare an Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreement (AST) tailored to any conditions you set, such as pet permissions or break clauses.
A tenancy deposit (typically equivalent to five weeks’ rent) must be taken and registered in a government-approved scheme, such as the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).
Step 8: Move-in day
On the tenancy start date, tenants sign agreements, pay their first month’s rent and deposit, and collect keys. It’s good practice to provide an inventory, appliance manuals, and details such as stopcock locations.
Step 9: During the tenancy
If you self-manage, you’ll need to handle tenant queries, arrange repairs, and ensure compliance with ongoing safety checks. If you choose our managed service, we’ll carry out regular inspections, deal with maintenance, and keep everything legally compliant for you.
Step 10: Renewal or moving on
Towards the end of the tenancy, you can decide whether to renew, review the rent, or remarket the property. If tenants leave, ensure the property is returned in good condition before returning their deposit.
FAQs
How long does it take to let a property?
On average, good-quality properties in Billericay can be let within 2–4 weeks of going to market, depending on demand and pricing.
What are my legal responsibilities as a landlord?
You must ensure your property meets all safety and compliance requirements, including EPCs, gas and electrical safety checks, and correct installation of smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Deposits must be registered in an approved scheme.
How much does it cost to let a property?
Costs vary depending on services chosen. Typical expenses include safety certificates, deposit protection, insurance, and agent fees. If you use a managed service, you’ll also pay a management fee which covers day-to-day running of the property.
Can I let my property if it has a mortgage?
Yes, but you must obtain consent from your mortgage lender first. Many lenders require this as part of your agreement.
What happens if a tenant doesn’t pay rent?
If a tenant falls behind on rent, your agent will contact them quickly to resolve the issue. Legal processes can be followed if necessary. Landlord insurance can provide protection in these situations.
Do I need insurance as a landlord?
Yes, landlord insurance is strongly advised. Policies can cover risks such as unpaid rent, accidental damage, or legal expenses.
Do I have to use a letting agent?
No, but many landlords find the process smoother and less stressful with professional support. An agent ensures compliance, marketing, referencing, and management are handled efficiently.