Guide To Letting

Referencing is an essential process when you’re letting out your property. Knowing exactly who is moving into your property will help you to make an informed decision about the tenants you choose. Finding the right tenants can be tricky, however, with our efficient service and thorough credit checks, you can rest assured you have the best possible tenants in your property.

From the 6th of April 2007 all new tenancy deposits must be sent to a government authorised scheme. This applies to all Assured Shorthold tenancy agreements. We arrange for property deposits to be held by the Deposit Protection Service and on expiry of term will only be released with both the landlords and tenants consent.

Flexible viewings will be arranged and accompanied if required and any feedback is obtained and relayed.

We offer a free no obligation rental appraisal of your property. A member of the team will visit your property and provide you with the current local market valuation.

Once instructed we will prepare for your approval, property particulars and supporting photographs to promote the appeal of your property. We will utilise our extensive mailing list and erect a ‘To Let’ board. The property will be advertised both within the office and local paper, on popular portals including www.rightmove.co.uk and on the Town & Country website.

The team will keep you informed on progress and resolve any issues that may arise, You can rely on excellent customer service and have confidence in the dedication and attention to detail the team will provide.

All furniture and furnishings provided by the landlord must comply with the current fire regulations. The majority of items will contain a sticker stating fire compliant, without this we shall require proof of purchase or a signed letter by the owner guaranteeing that the relevant item was purchased after 1988. These regulations apply to any upholstered furniture to control the dangers from toxic fumes, which are produced from foam. Smoke alarms must be fitted and in working order prior to the commencement of the tenancy.

Current legislation requires that anyone letting property in England and Wales must provide potential tenants with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) during the marketing process. We can organise this at a discounted rate on your behalf if required.

The minimum term of an Assured Shorthold Tenancy is six months. On expiry of the initial period, depending on the landlords preference, tenants can sign a new contract or continue to remain there on a ‘rolling contract’ where the tenant must give one month’s written notice and the landlord must provide the tenant with two months written notice or vacate on the expiry of term.

We require this in writing from your Bank or Building Society. If the property is not mortgaged we require a copy of the deeds to be held in our records.

If there is a mortgage on the property a letter of consent is required from the mortgage company.

Rental income is taxable although there are costs which could be offset against any rental income. We would recommend you taking advice from an accountant for further information.

Letting a property requires attention to detail throughout the process. It is important to recognise that applicants who are very particular over their accommodation are also more likely to take their housekeeping more seriously. Our team will be on hand to advise you on how best to present your property to secure the tenant you require. If there is a need to undertake repairs and refurbishment we can provide guidance and advise on improvements prior to letting.