Before a property can be let, there are several matters which the owner will need to deal with to ensure that the Occupation Contract runs smoothly, and also that he/she complies with the law. We provide summarised information below. If you require further advice or assistance with any matter, please do not hesitate to contact us:

If your property is mortgaged, you should obtain your mortgagee’s written consent to the letting. They may require additional clauses in the Occupation Contract of which you must inform us.

If you are a leaseholder, you should check the terms of your lease, and obtain any necessary written consent before letting.

You should ensure that you are suitably covered for letting under both your buildings and contents insurance. Failure to inform your insurers may invalidate your policies.

We will arrange for the transfer of Council Tax and Water to the Contract Holder. Meter readings will need to be taken by yourself, allowing your closing gas and electricity accounts to be drawn up.

We would not be doing our job properly if we did not advise you of ways that you can protect yourself and contribute towards a smooth-running occupation contract. Most contract holder(s) are now increasingly aware of their rights, particularly concerning the protection of their deposit.

Deposit disputes can be one of the biggest problems for both parties involved in rental property, and many potential issues can be avoided if a professional inventory is prepared.

A true inventory is not simply a list of items in a property; it should also include a clear and accurate description of the condition and cleanliness of each item detailed, so that this can be used as a solid record on which to base the final inspection of the property and in deciding if any deductions are necessary.

Photographs are excellent supporting evidence for comments made in a written inventory but should not be considered a substitute for the written word. Ideally, photographs should be signed, dated and accepted by the contract holder(s) at the outset and again at the check-out stage.

It is important to note that some aspects of a property, such as paintwork, will naturally deteriorate over time. Therefore a landlord should not request that items be restored to a condition surpassing the quality established at the start of the lease. Allowances must be made for fair wear and tear by the occupier relative to the length of time in the property, the number of occupiers etc.

A well put together inventory can give both landlords and contract holder(s) peace of mind throughout the tenancy and ensures both parties are in agreement over the quality of the property being rented.