Becoming a Landlord: What to Sort Before Anyone Moves In

Letting out a property for the first time can feel like a big step, and it should. You are taking responsibility for a home, a tenant and a set of legal duties. The good news is that it becomes far more manageable once you know what must be ready before the keys are handed over.

What are you legally responsible for?

Start with the safety essentials. Where relevant, you need a valid Gas Safety Certificate, an Electrical Installation Condition Report, a valid Energy Performance Certificate and working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

Prepare the paperwork properly

Any tenancy deposit must be protected in an approved scheme within the required timescale, with the prescribed information supplied. Right to Rent checks must be completed and the current How to Rent guide provided.

Record the property's condition

A detailed inventory with dated photographs gives landlord and tenant an agreed record at check-in and can prevent misunderstandings later.

Plan for the tenancy

Decide how repairs will be reported, when inspections will take place and how urgent issues will be handled. Check landlord insurance and any mortgage lender or freeholder requirements.

Lettings done ethically

At David Doyle, we are proud members of the Ethical Agent Network. That means our lettings advice and service are independently assessed against standards for honesty, professionalism and community care, which matters when both landlords and tenants deserve to be treated fairly.