What is an EPC and why do I need one?

An EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) has been a legal requirement on a rental property since 2008. An EPC will give a property an energy efficiency rating from A to G, this will allow tenants to compare properties on an energy efficiency basis. You do not need to get a new EPC with every new tenancy as they are valid for 10 years, but any improvements made to a property after an EPC was issued may improve the ratings. A copy must be provided to any new tenant.
From the 1st April 2016 a tenant can request energy efficiency improvements to a property and reasonable requests cannot be refused.
From April 2018 all rental properties must have a minimum rating of E or better, there is also plans for a minimum rating of D or better from 2025 (although this legislation has still not been passed).

What are my responsibilities and duties regarding gas?

It is a legal requirement under Gas Safety Regulations 1998, that the landlord ensures any gas appliances, gas fittings and flues provided for tenants are safe, you must also have a Gas Safety Certificate undertaken by a Gas Safe registered engineer at least once every 12 months. You must issue a copy of the Gas Safety Certificate to the existing tenants once completed, or to any new tenants before they move in. You should keep a record of each Gas Safety Certificate for at least 2 years as may be asked to produce it in the event of an issue arising.

If I let my property out do I need to change my insurance policy?

When renting your house out you will need to change your homeowner’s insurance policy to a rental / landlord insurance policy. This policy covers the buildings structure, pipes and electrics but does not include contents.
We strongly recommend to any tenants that they should get their own contents insurance to cover their belongings.
Failure to change your insurance will result in a void policy if the property is tenanted and something goes wrong.

Do I need to inform my mortgage lender if I want to let out my property?

You will need to gain permission called ‘consent to let’ from your mortgage lender to let your property out or you may need to change your mortgage to a Buy to Let mortgage. Your mortgage provider may impose special conditions, which you will need to inform us about. If you are looking to buy a property with the intention of letting the property out, you may be able to obtain a Buy to Let mortgage where the permission is already granted.

I would like to rent my property how do I know what rent to charge?

We will conduct a rental valuation of your property based on comparable evidence of rental prices achieved on similar properties in the surrounding area. After the valuation we will be able to give you a guide of what the monthly rental value should be.
Unlike some agents who will give you the figure you want to hear we feel it is important you receive a realistic rental valuation to avoid any extended empty periods or unnecessary price drops.