As a landlord or letting agent, getting your property ready for new tenants is essential for ensuring a smooth and positive experience. It's not just about aesthetics, though that’s important—it’s also about meeting legal requirements and maintaining the property’s long-term condition. A well-prepared property will help attract reliable tenants, reduce void periods, and avoid potential issues down the line. 

With so much to think about, having a simple checklist can make life easier for both you and your current tenants as you prepare the property for its next residents. Here are the critical areas you’ll need to remember: 

1. Deep clean the property

While your outgoing tenants are typically responsible for leaving the property clean, sometimes a professional clean is needed to bring it up to a higher standard. A well-cleaned home not only sets the right tone for new tenants but also gives them a sense of how you'd like the property maintained. Key areas to focus on include: 

• Carpets and Flooring: Consider having carpets professionally cleaned, especially if there have been pets or visible stains. This can also freshen up older carpets. For hard flooring like wood, tiles, or vinyl, ensure everything is clean and undamaged. 

• Kitchens: Thoroughly clean all appliances, including the oven, hob, fridge, and microwave. This can also help remove any lingering odours. Make sure cupboards and drawers are emptied and cleaned, too. 

• Bathrooms: Remove any limescale, especially if you're in a hard water area. Clean tiles, grout, mirrors, and shower screens to make the space more inviting and easier for new tenants to maintain. 

• Windows: Clean both the inside and outside of windows, and ensure any blinds or curtains are in good condition. This will also help you spot any condensation issues that could lead to damp problems. 

• General Areas: Dust and wipe down all surfaces, including skirting boards, light fixtures, and door frames. Small details can make a big difference to the overall feel of the property. 

2. Safety checks and certifications

As a UK landlord, it’s your legal responsibility to ensure your property is safe. Don’t forget to complete these checks: 

• Gas Safety: A registered Gas Safe engineer must conduct an annual gas safety check and provide a valid certificate (CP12). 

• Electrical Safety: An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) should be done by a qualified electrician at least every five years to ensure the electrical systems are safe. 

• Energy Efficiency (MEES): Your property usually must have an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rating of E or higher. Keep an eye out for upcoming regulation changes, as the threshold is likely to rise. 

• Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Make sure there are smoke alarms on every floor, and test them before new tenants move in. Carbon monoxide alarms are also needed in rooms with solid fuel appliances. 

• Fire Safety: If your property is a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO), you will need additional fire safety measures like fire doors. 

• Legionella: A competent person should perform a risk assessment to ensure the risk of legionella is controlled. 

• Deposit Protection: Ensure the tenant’s deposit is protected in a government-approved scheme, and provide the new tenant with the necessary prescribed information promptly. 

3. Inspect and maintain key systems

Ensuring that all essential systems and appliances are in good working order is crucial, especially given the rise in energy costs. It also helps prevent unexpected issues during the tenancy: 

• Boiler and Heating: Have the boiler serviced to avoid any breakdowns, especially before winter. Bleed the radiators if necessary, and check that the thermostat works properly. 

• Plumbing: Look for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in the bathroom. Make sure taps, showers, and toilets are functioning correctly. 

• Electricals: Test all light fixtures, plug sockets, and appliances. Replace any faulty bulbs or switches, and ensure any provided appliances, like washing machines or dishwashers, are in good working order. 

4. General maintenance and repairs

Taking care of maintenance and repairs before your new tenants move in helps avoid potential disputes and costly issues later. Focus on: 

• Paint and Décor: Touch up any chipped paint and repair any cracks in the walls. A fresh coat of paint can do wonders for the appearance and shows that the property is well cared for. 

• Locks and Security: Change locks if needed, and ensure all doors and windows have functioning locks for security and peace of mind. 

• Gardens and Outdoor Areas: Mow the lawn, trim any hedges, and remove any rubbish from the garden or driveway. Starting with a tidy outdoor space helps set expectations for how it should be maintained during the tenancy. Check fences and sheds for damage, especially before blustery months. 

5. Furnishings and appliances

If your property is let furnished, you’ll need to ensure all furniture and appliances meet legal safety standards and are in good condition: 

• Furniture: Make sure any furniture complies with the UK’s Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations. Check and display the correct fire safety labels on items like sofas, mattresses, and upholstered furniture. 

• Appliances: Test all white goods, such as washing machines, fridges, and ovens. If anything is not in working order, get it repaired or replaced. Providing instruction manuals can be helpful for new tenants. 

6. Create a detailed check-in inventory

A thorough check-in inventory protects both you and your tenants. Be sure to include: 

• Condition of the Property: Document the condition of each room in detail, including walls, floors, and any furnishings or appliances. Well-lit, dated photos are helpful for clarity and can prevent disputes later. 

• Meter Readings: Record the gas, electricity, and water meter readings at the start of the tenancy to ensure no confusion over utility bills. 

• Keys: Keep a record of how many sets of keys you’re issuing, and for which doors, windows, or communal areas. 

• Tenant Feedback: Encourage tenants to review the inventory and provide any feedback. This opens the lines of communication and helps address any concerns before they become bigger issues. 

7. Final walkthrough

Before handing over the keys, do a final walkthrough to make sure everything is ready. This is the last chance to catch any issues before the tenants move in. Check that: 

• All safety checks and certifications are complete and up to date. 

• The property is clean, secure, and ready for immediate occupancy. 

• Keys, manuals, and any important documents (like emergency contact information) are handed over.

Putting in the effort pays off

By preparing your property thoroughly, you’re not only making a great first impression on new tenants but also protecting your investment. A well-maintained property attracts quality tenants, reduces the risk of disputes, and keeps long-term maintenance costs lower.  

Remember to conduct safety checks, make necessary repairs, and create a thorough check-in inventory with tenant feedback. The quickest and easiest way to do this is on the Inventory Hive platform. This will help establish a positive landlord-tenant relationship and ensure a smooth and stress-free tenancy for everyone. 

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