At Hamlets we appreciate that letting your property may seem complicated, especially if this is your first time as a landlord.

The aim of this page is to provide you with the basic information so that you can make the best choice for both you and your property.

The following are a few of the more important items which need to be considered first by new landlords...

If you have a mortgage other than a specific Buy To Let on the property, you need to obtain permission from your mortgagee before letting the property This is not usually a problem but can take up to a month to receive official permission in writing. This should be done as soon as you think about letting your property.

All landlords have a statutory obligation as part of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 to maintain the structure and main services to the property and keep these in good repair. It is a legal requirement that all gas equipment in rented properties is checked annually by a registered installer, and a Landlord Safety Record issued. Hamlets can organise this if required. The tenant must have a copy of the record on moving into the property and Hamlets must have a copy for their files. No tenancy can commence without this record.

Electrical safety regulations require that all appliances in the property must be safe. Electrical wiring must be checked and a certificate issued. Electrical installation work is now part of new building regulations ‘Part P’.

All property let after 1st October 2008 has to have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) which basically asses’ its energy efficiency rating. This has to be shown to all prospective tenants.

All furniture left in the property must comply with Fire and Safety regulations. These regulations relate to anything foam filled.

All non resident landlords must fill in appropriate tax forms to obtain an approval number before letting their property. All landlords resident in UK will be required to fill in an annual self assessment form. Hamlets are required by law to deduct tax at source for non resident landlords, unless an approval number is on file.

Landlord should inform their insurers of the change of occupier, and ensure that the buildings and their own contents are insured. Hamlets can provide details of insurance for both buildings and contents. Tenants are made aware that they should be covered for accidental damage during the tenancy.

The above is very basic and is not intended to cover all matters. Landlords can get more information from either Elaine or Maureen about their particular property queries and book a no-obligation appointment for us to call and meet and discuss their requirements at the property..