Preparing Your Property for a New Tenant

Ensuring a seamless transition for new tenants is a critical part of being a landlord and involves careful planning and thorough preparations.

Proper preparation, attention to detail and clear communication will help create a positive experience for both landlords and tenants, setting the stage for a successful and harmonious tenancy.

Here’s a comprehensive checklist to cover essential tasks, from property cleaning to key handovers and welcome packs:

Property Cleaning and Maintenance

• Deep Cleaning: Ensure the property is thoroughly cleaned before new tenants move in. Clean carpets, windows and all surfaces, including kitchen appliances and bathrooms.
• Repairs and Maintenance: Address any necessary repairs and maintenance to ensure the property is in good condition. Fix any leaks, replace broken tiles, and ensure all fixtures and fittings are in working order.
• Gardening and Outdoor Spaces: Tidy up any outdoor spaces, including gardens and driveways. Where appropriate, cut the grass, trim the hedges and clear any debris from pathways.

Safety Checks

• Gas Safety: Arrange for a Gas Safe registered engineer to conduct a gas safety check and provide a Gas Safety Certificate. Ensure all gas appliances, pipes and flues are inspected and safe to use.
• Electrical Safety: Conduct an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to ensure electrical systems are safe. Check wiring, sockets and light fittings for any faults or hazards.
• Fire Safety: Install and check smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors and fire extinguishers. Ensure smoke alarms are installed on each floor and test them to confirm they are working. Remember, in Scotland, all homes must have interlinked smoke and heat alarms and carbon monoxide detectors where appropriate.

Documentation and Legal Requirements

• Tenancy Agreement: Prepare a comprehensive tenancy agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy. Include details on rent payment, deposit and the landlord’s and tenant’s responsibilities.
• Tenant Information Pack: Provide tenants with a Tenant Information Pack that includes essential information about the property and tenancy. Include details on safety checks, energy efficiency and emergency contacts.
• Deposit Protection: Protect the tenant’s deposit in a government-approved deposit protection scheme. Register the deposit within 30 working days of receipt and provide the tenant with the required information.

Key Handovers

• Spare Keys: Ensure there are spare keys for all locks in the property, including doors, windows and garages. Provide tenants with at least two sets of keys for each lock.
• Lock Changes: You may want to consider changing the locks before new tenants move in for added security. Replace locks on the front and back doors and any other external access points.

Utilities and Services

• Meter Readings: Take meter readings for gas, electricity, and water before new tenants move in. Record the readings and provide copies to both the tenant and utility companies.

Welcome Pack

• Contact Information: Provide a welcome pack with essential contact information, including the landlord’s and property manager’s details. Include phone numbers and email addresses for emergency and non-emergency contacts.
• House Rules and Guidelines: Outline any house rules and guidelines for the property. Include information on waste disposal, recycling and any community rules.
• Local Information: You may want to provide information about the local area, including transport links, shops and amenities.

Final Inspection

• Pre-Tenancy Inspection: Conduct a final inspection of the property before new tenants move in. Check that all repairs have been completed, cleaning is up to standard and all safety measures are in place.
• Inventory and Condition Report: Prepare an inventory and condition report to document the state of the property and its contents. Take photographs and provide a detailed list of furnishings, fixtures and fittings.

By following this comprehensive checklist, you can ensure a smooth and seamless transition for new tenants.

Does your property portfolio need managed? We can help. To speak to one of our property experts here at Dwello, you can call us on 0141 357 3579 or you can visit the Landlord section of our website for further information.