Residential Lettings

Guidance For Landlords :
Letting & HomeLink Services

Free Advice & Rental Assessment
A member of our experienced team will visit your property to advise on rental value and discuss the type of letting recommended to suit your individual circumstances. We will give advice on whether you should let furnished or unfurnished, the type of tenancy agreement, landlords regulations and responsibilities, and the many more questions you are sure to have. We can even give guidance on how to fit-out your property cost effectively and recommend tradesmen if required. If you haven’t made your purchase yet and need some advice prior to making the commitment we will be happy to discuss your options.

Furnished Or Unfurnished?
If you are unsure whether to let your property furnished or unfurnished we can advise on the pros and cons of each. If the property is to be let unfurnished, it is preferable to supply curtains, carpets and white goods. If being let furnished, when you are deciding what furniture and equipment to leave or supply, it is a good idea to place yourself in the shoes of the future tenant and give consideration to what you yourself would require. The furnishings and equipment form part of the letting for which the tenant is paying so everything should be serviceable and functional. It is advisable to provide instructions for such things as white goods and the heating system. The functionality of all items is the responsibility of the owner unless it is established that there has been carelessness or misuse by the tenant. It is advisable to remove delicate or irreplaceable objects before the property is let.

The Homelink Services
We provide two principal services, our Full Management Service (click here to download more information), and our Tenant Find Service. If you don’t want the daily hassle of managing your investment then the Full management Service is for you. Please download the separate schedule for a list of what the service provides, or give us a call and we will be happy to send you a copy. If you want to take advantage of our marketing to quickly find a new tenant, but are quite happy to handle the daily management, then Tenant Find is the service you seek.

Finding A Suitable Tenant
We will market your property (via our website, we will also upload your property details to the “Rightmove.co.uk” property search website, erect a ‘To Let’ board, prepare a property schedule with colour photography, add to our window display, property list, and search our extensive mailing list), carry out viewings if required, and then take up references for your approval. We recommend advertising in the local press, which may be an additional expense, but usually ensures a quick turnaround between tenants.

Tenancy Preparation
A detailed inventory and schedule of condition will be prepared, a tenancy agreement prepared (all tenants are required to sign a Short Assured Tenancy Agreement under the provisions of the Housing Act 1988 for a minimum fixed term of six months), collection of rent (payable monthly in advance), and collection of deposit (normally equivalent to one months rent). The tenant will be checked in and we will notify the appropriate authorities re transfer of utilities.

Services
Tenants are responsible for their own supply of gas and electricity, and council tax whilst occupying the property. Phone lines should be disconnected and should the tenant wish to re-connect they are responsible for the charges involved.

Rent Payments
Payable monthly in advance by the tenant and upon receipt we will transfer to your nominated bank account. A statement of account will be forwarded to you. If you decide to allow DSS tenants rent is generally paid one month in arrears.

Inspections
Periodic inspections are carried out to ensure all is being kept in order.

Landlords Responsibilities
Landlords are responsible for any use of services and council tax during vacant periods. If the property is unfurnished it may be possible to gain an exemption from Council Tax for this period. During the winter months it is advisable to ensure the property is adequately heated to avoid damage such as burst pipes. If repairs are required we can contact reputable maintenance companies on your behalf. We will always contact you to advise on any necessary repairs, but in an emergency will instruct repairs to avoid further damage to your property. You must ensure that your property and its contents are adequately insured. Consult your existing insurer, but you may need to make changes to your policy. Your insurers must be told that you are renting the property. HomeLink can obtain quotes and arrange Landlords insurance cover on your behalf. Permission should be obtained from your mortgage lender (if applicable). Tax liability is assessed on the net income you derive from the investment. There may also be Capital Gains Tax on the future sale. It is advisable to consult an accountant on these matters.

Landlords Legal Protection
We recommend that you arrange a comprehensive landlord’s legal protection policy to ensure your peace of mind. HomeLink can obtain quotes and arrange on your behalf.

Safety Regulations
It is the Landlords responsibility to ensure that the property meets safety regulations and HomeLink can assist with arrangement of the required certificates.

• The Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988
• The Furniture & Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) (Amendment) Regulations 1993
• The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1994
• The Low Voltage Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1989
• Electric Equipment (Safety) Regulations 1994
• The Building Regulations 1991 – (Smoke Alarms)

Contact Us
If you would like to discuss any of our services please call us on 01698 264422
or email lettings@homelinkproperties.co.uk