How to Become a Landlord
Becoming a landlord can be a good way to generate an income from a property, but it also comes with legal responsibilities. Before renting out a property, it is important to understand the rules and make sure the property is suitable and compliant.
Getting started
First, check that your mortgage lender and insurance provider allow the property to be rented out. You should also consider the likely rental value, ongoing costs, maintenance and potential tax implications.
Your property must meet the required health and safety standards. Depending on the property, this can include gas and electrical safety checks, suitable smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, fire safety requirements and a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
In England, landlords must also complete the required Right to Rent checks and ensure tenants’ deposits are handled in accordance with the relevant legislation. There are also specific rules covering tenancy agreements, rent, repairs, property inspections and ending a tenancy.
Landlord legislation can change, so it is important to keep up to date with the latest requirements.
Further guidance
For the latest official information and guidance, visit:
- GOV.UK – Renting out your property: Landlord responsibilities
- GOV.UK – Private renting and landlord safety responsibilities
- GOV.UK – Tenancy deposit protection
- HSE – Gas safety for landlords
- GOV.UK – Renters’ Rights Act: guidance for landlords
How PC Lettings can help
Once you become a landlord, PC Lettings can help you find the right tenant and manage your property.
Our Let-Only Service is designed for landlords who are happy to manage the property themselves but want professional help marketing the property, conducting viewings, referencing tenants, preparing legal documents and dealing with the initial tenancy setup.
Our Full Management Service is designed for landlords who want as little involvement as possible. We can handle tenant finding, referencing, rent collection, inspections, maintenance, safety checks, tenancy administration and end-of-tenancy arrangements.
We can also provide a bespoke service, tailoring our involvement to suit how much or how little you want to manage yourself.
