Preparing for the next tenancy
Preparing for the next tenancy involves cleaning, repairs, and making sure that the property meets leasing standards for new tenants
It’s a common misconception that landlords only underinsure properties as a means of chasing cheaper premiums, when it’s more likely to be that they have failed to include everything when calculating the rebuild cost.
Ideally, you should aim to keep the void period between tenancies as short as possible, so that you maximise your rental income.
However, there are certain checks to be made and usually jobs that need to be done before the property is occupied again.
So, even if you have found a new tenant by the time the previous one moves out, it’s sensible to leave a few days between tenancies so you can take time to prepare the property properly. For instance:
Make sure the EPC, gas safety certificate and electrical safety certificates are all valid – and it may be worth having the boiler serviced
Check smoke and CO alarms are working properly
Check any appliances you have provided work properly and look in a good state of repair – do they need replacing?
Are any upgrades required, such as new countertops or cupboard doors in the kitchen, a new shower or bathroom taps?
The property may need repainting
Carpets may require a deep clean
If you are still advertising the property, remember that you need to make yours stand out from the crowd to attract the best tenant and secure the best market rent.
For more advice and ideas, see our ultimate guide to rental property marketing and our article, ‘Nine steps to becoming a good and successful landlord’.
And for full information on what’s required when preparing your property to let, see our separate ultimate guide.