Our services

Our Letting Only Services includes expert property advice & comprehensive marketing of the property. We will carry out viewings, leading to the introduction and vetting of a prospective Tenant, including tenant referencing and credit checks. This proving satisfactory, we then go ahead and prepare the tenancy agreement.

We can also organize the Gas safety Certificate, Energy Performance Certificate, and Electrical Safety Certificate if required. We can also place the tenancy deposit with the DPS if required at no extra cost.

Following this, the first month’s rent is collected and credited to the Landlord less our agreed fee. Managing the tenancy, including the maintenance and rent collection, will then be the responsibility of the Landlord.

Our Rent Collection Service includes everything in our Letting Only service and more. We will provide expert property advice and comprehensive marketing of the property. We will carry out viewings, leading to the introduction and vetting of a prospective Tenant, including tenant referencing and credit checks. This proving satisfactory, we then go ahead and prepare the tenancy agreement.

We can also organize the Gas safety Certificate, Energy Performance Certificate, and Electrical Safety Certificate if required. We can also place the tenancy deposit with the DPS if required at no extra cost.

Maintenance issues including inspecting the property are then passed to the landlord; however we do offer a key holding service so we will securely hold a set of keys to the property in the event of an emergency.

Collecting and processing of rental payments is an important part of our Rent Collection service. Rental balances will be credited automatically to the Landlord’s nominated bank account each month less our agreed fee.

Towards the end of the tenancy, we liaise with the Tenant, with a view to renewing the tenancy agreement, or arranging to check them out and re-advertising the property to let.

This is our inclusive Service, which includes everything in our Rent Collection Service and so much more! We will provide expert property advice and comprehensive marketing of the property. We will carry out viewings, leading to the introduction and vetting of a prospective Tenant, including tenant referencing and credit checks. This proving satisfactory, we then go ahead and prepare the tenancy agreement. With this service we also offer a free move in inventory, and we will then check in the new tenant against the inventory.

We can also organize the Gas safety Certificate, Energy Performance Certificate, and Electrical Safety Certificate if required. We can also place the tenancy deposit with the DPS if required at no extra cost. We will also arrange for the names on all the utilities to be transferred to the tenant.

Collecting and processing of rental payments is also an important part of our Full Management Service. Rental balances will be credited automatically to the Landlord’s nominated bank account each month less our agreed fee.

During the tenancy we will carry out quarterly inspection visits. Should these bring to light any maintenance issues, we will (within the confines of our Management Agreement) arrange or recommend any necessary repairs.

Towards the end of the tenancy, we liaise with the Tenant, with a view to renewing the tenancy agreement, or arranging to check them out and re-advertising the property to let. We will continue to manage the property even in the event it is vacant. Should there be any

This Service is suitable for Landlords who are not residing locally, or would rather not deal with the Tenants directly, preferring all aspects to be handled by an Agent.

We like to be transparent when communication our fees for finding you a tenant and managing the process to move them in. There are a number of different service options available to you as outlined below and our fees are a percentage of the gross rental income for the period of the tenancy agreed.

*VAT Applied on all fees.

Standard Fees

We offer very competitive commission terms for Landlords

Rent Guarantee is also available 0% Commission

Other Fees

Seller Fees

Standard Fees

Referencing

We currently use a professional referencing company who offer various levels of checks.  These include credit checks, previous landlord references where appropriate, employment references and residency information.  Further details available upon request.

Maintenance (Management only)

We will respond to reports from tenants regarding maintenance issues and instruct tradesmen accordingly.  We will attempt to contact you before instructing any work subject to the urgency of the situation.

Property Inspection (Management only)

We will make quarterly visits to the property and advise you of any maintenance or repair issues which we consider should be brought to your attention.  Such visits, however, should not be regarded as anything more than a check to ensure that the tenants are observing the conditions of the agreement and are generally looking after the property.  We do not carry out inspections between tenancies.

We have found that a good relationship with Tenants is the key to a smooth-running tenancy. As Property Managers this relationship is our job, but it is important that the Tenants should feel comfortable in their temporary home, and that they are receiving value for their money. It follows therefore that a well presented and maintained property in a good decorative order will go towards this, whilst also achieving a higher rental figure. Tenants are also more inclined to treat such a property with greater respect.

General Condition

Electrical, gas plumbing, waste, central heating and hot water systems must be safe, sound and in good working order. Repairs and maintenance are at the Landlords expense unless misuse can be established. Interior decorations should be in good condition and preferably plain, light and neutral.

Furnishings

Your property can be let fully furnished, part furnished or unfurnished. Which of these is appropriate will depend on the type of property and local market conditions. We will be pleased to give you advice on whether to furnish or not and to what level. As a minimum you will need to provide decent quality carpets, curtains and light fittings. Remember that there will be wear and tear on the property and any items provided.

Personal items, ornaments etc.

Personal possessions, ornaments, pictures, books etc. should be removed from the premises, especially those of real or sentimental value. Some items may be boxed, sealed and stored in the loft at the owner’s risk. All cupboards and shelf space should be left clear for the Tenant’s own use.

Gardens

Gardens should be left neat, tidy and rubbish free, with any lawns cut. Tenants are required to maintain the gardens to a reasonable standard, provided they are left the necessary tools. However, few Tenants are experienced gardeners, and if you value your garden, or if it is particularly large, you may wish us to arrange visits by our regular gardener.

Cleaning

At the commencement of the tenancy the property must be in a thoroughly clean condition, and at the end of each tenancy it is the Tenants’ responsibility to leave the property in a similar condition. Where they fail to do so, cleaning will be arranged at their expense.

Information for the Tenant

It is helpful if you leave information for the Tenant, e.g. on operating the central heating and hot water system, washing machine and alarm system, and the day refuse is collected etc.

Keys

You should provide one set of keys for each Tenant. Where we will be managing we will arrange to have duplicates cut as required.

Before a property can be let, there are several matters which the owner will need to deal with to ensure that the tenancy 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:

Mortgage

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

Leaseholds

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

Insurance

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 can provide information on Landlords Legal Protection, Rent Guarantee Cover and Landlords Contents and Buildings Insurance if required.

Bills and regular outgoings

We recommend that you arrange for regular outgoings e.g. service charges, maintenance contracts etc. to be paid by standing order or direct debit. However where we are managing the property, by prior written agreement we may make payment of certain bills on your behalf, provided such bills are received in your name at our office, and that sufficient funds are held to your credit.

Council tax and utility accounts

We will arrange for the transfer of Council Tax and utility accounts to the Tenant. Meter readings will be taken, allowing your closing gas and electricity accounts to be drawn up. All these matters we will handle for you, however British Telecom will require instructions directly from both the Landlord and the Tenant.

The inventory

It is most important that an inventory of contents and schedule of condition be prepared, in order to avoid misunderstanding or dispute at the end of a tenancy. Without such safeguards, it will be impossible for the Landlord to prove any loss, damage, or significant deterioration of the property or contents. In order to provide a complete Service, we will if required arrange for a member of staff to prepare an inventory and schedule of condition, at the cost quoted in our Agency Agreement.

What is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy?

Most tenancies will automatically be Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs), provided the rent is under £100,000 a year and the property is let to private individuals. Tenancies are usually granted for an initial fixed term of either 6 to 12 months. When the fixed term has expired the landlord is able to regain possession of the property provided he gives two months written notice to the tenant.

As a landlord, there are certain legal obligations that you have to meet when letting your property. These ensure that the property is safe for the tenant to live in. The law requires Landlords to maintain their property and undertake any major repairs that are required. In addition, there are special rules that apply:

Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

Landlords need to produce an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for their tenants and applicants every time they let their property. All properties must have a minimum grade of E or above to be rented, unless they are exempt. Visit www.communities.gov.uk

Gas Safety Certificate

Landlords must comply with the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998, and carry out all necessary maintenance to gas appliances and gas pipe work in their property through a Gas Safety Registered engineer. You are also legally responsible to arrange for an annual gas safety check every 12 months. Visit www.gassaferegister.co.uk

Furniture & Furnishings Regulations

It is an offence to let a property with any furniture or furnishings that do not comply with safety regulations set out in the Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety) Regulations 1988 (as amended in 1989 and 1993). Visit www.firesasfe.org.uk

Smoke Alarm & Carbon Monoxide (Co2)

Since June 1992, building regulations have required that all properties built have a smoke detector installed. Property built after June 1992 must have mains operated smoke detectors on each floor and a Co2 alarm fitted if there is a gas supply. Visit www.direct.gov.uk

Electricity Installation Condition Report (EICR)

From 1 June 2020, new Regulations require landlords to have the electrical installations in their properties inspected and tested by a person who is qualified and competent, at least every 5 years. Landlords have to provide a copy of the electrical safety report to their tenants, and to their local authority if requested.

Mortgage and leasehold

If you have a mortgage you should obtain consent from your mortgage lender. If your interest in the property in leasehold your lease may require you to obtain consent from your landlord prior to sub- letting.

Insurance

Standard home owner insurance may well be validated when you let your property; however we advise a more comprehensive insurance package to cover you in all situations. You may want to consider Buildings Insurance, Contents Insurance, Home Emergency Cover. However, for your peace of mind, our Lets-Cover insurance solutions policies provide landlords and tenants with a range of insurance solutions at competitive premiums. Visit www.lets-cover.co.uk

Rental Income Tax

You are required to pay income tax on rental income and have legal responsibility to notify Revenue and Customs of any liability. Visit www.hmre.gov.uk/landlord

Privately Rented Property License (from Council)

Please note that we have to receive a copy of your Rented Property License before we can let out your property (where applicable). If you do not have a license, we can apply for it on your behalf (You will incur additional costs). Alternatively you can apply for it yourself. It is mandatory to provide us with your license and HMO license where applicable no matter which service you require. Some arrears may require planning permission depending on the type of tenants you let too. It is the Landlord’s responsibility to ensure the correct planning permission and license is granted (where applicable).

THE DEPOSIT

From 2007, all new Tenancy deposits must be protected by a government Authorized Scheme. Prime Estate Agents can do this at no extra cost to you, the government scheme we use is Deposit Protection Service (DPS). However if you choose to do you may also use MyDeposits, Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) etc.This new rule applies if Tenancy is an assured Shorthold Tenancy. Visit www.direct.gov.uk/tenancydeposit for your peace of mind.

The Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS)

The HHSRS provides an analysis of how hazardous a property is through assessment of 29 potential hazards found in housing. Landlords have to maintain their properties to provide a safe and healthy environment. The HHSRS is enforced by local authorities.

The Disability Discrimination Act 2005

The DDA 2005 addresses the limitations of current legislation by extending disabled people’s rights in respect of premises that are let or to be let, and commonhold premises. Landlords and managers of let premises and premises that are to let will be required to make reasonable adjustments for disabled people.

When resident in the UK, it is entirely the Landlords responsibility to inform the Revenue & Customs of rental income received, and to pay any tax due. Where the Landlord is resident outside the UK during a tenancy, he will require an exemption certificate from the Revenue & Customs before he can receive rental balances without deduction of tax. Where we are managing the property we will provide advice and assistance on applying for such exemption.

All deposits taken by landlords and letting agents under Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) in England and Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland must now be protected by a tenancy deposit protection scheme. To avoid any disputes going to court, each scheme is supported by an alternative dispute resolution service (ADR). Landlords and letting agents can choose between two types of scheme; a single custodial scheme and two insurance-based schemes. More information on request.