There are various matters that need to be considered before, during and after a property has been let. If you require further advice or assistance with any matter, please do not hesitate to Contact us.
Mortgage
If your property is mortgaged, you should obtain your mortgagee's written consent to the letting. They may require additional clauses in the tenancy agreement of which you must inform us. Failure to do so may invalidate your Buildings insurance.
Leaseholds
If you are a leaseholder, you should check the terms of your lease, and obtain the necessary written consent before letting.
Insurance
You should ensure that you are suitably covered for letting under both your buildings and contents insurance. Failure to inform your insurers may invalidate your policies.
Council tax
Council tax is the responsibility of the occupier. You should inform your local collection office that you are leaving the property if applicable and we will inform them of the new occupants but during vacant periods the charge reverts to the owner. When unoccupied but furnished, the charge is 50% of the normal rate. When unoccupied and unfurnished, there is no charge for the first six months, and a charge of 50% of the normal rate thereafter.
The inventory
It is most important that an inventory of contents and schedule of condition be prepared, in order to avoid misunderstanding or dispute at the end of a tenancy. Without such safeguards, it would be impossible for the landlord to prove any loss, damage, or significant deterioration of the property or contents.
Furniture and furnishings
The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (amended 1989, 1993 & 1996) states that specified items used in any property which is to be let must meet minimum fire resistant standards. You should expect to find a compliance label attached to any soft furnished items. We will check these items and advise accordingly if the property is to be furnished. Any items that are non-compliant have to be removed from the premises. Items purchased after 1st March 1990 from a reputable supplier are likely to comply with these regulations.
