Becoming a landlord: the basics

Letting a property is straightforward once you know the ground rules, and most of them exist to protect both you and your tenant. Get these right and the rest tends to follow.

Safety comes first. You’ll need a valid EPC, an annual Gas Safety Certificate if there’s gas, and electrical installation checks at least every five years. Smoke alarms on every floor and a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with a solid-fuel appliance are legal requirements.

When a tenant pays a deposit, you must protect it in a government-approved deposit scheme within 30 days and give them the scheme’s details. This isn’t optional, and getting it wrong can be costly.

Right to Rent checks apply in England: you must confirm a tenant can legally rent before they move in. A clear written tenancy agreement, usually an assured shorthold tenancy, sets out rent, term and responsibilities for both sides.

Think about the money beyond the rent: periods without a tenant, maintenance, and tax on rental income. Many landlords use an agent for day-to-day management, but plenty self-manage successfully, especially with one or two properties.

When you’re ready to advertise, a complete, honest listing with clear photos and the key facts, rent, deposit, furnishing and availability, brings you better tenants faster. That’s exactly what Bybricks is built for.