Renting out your house in London can be a great way to generate steady income, but before you list your property, it’s essential to prepare it properly. A well-presented, legally compliant home not only attracts better tenants but also helps you maximise your rental income. From cleaning and repairs to legal requirements and safety checks, getting your property ready for tenants takes some careful planning.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare your house for rent in London, covering key aspects such as property maintenance, furnishing, legal compliance, and more. Fraser Bond can help ensure your property is tenant-ready and marketable to prospective renters.
First impressions matter, and the cleanliness of your home plays a big role in attracting tenants. A clean, well-organised house will appeal to renters and show that the property has been well-maintained.
Make sure to give your house a deep clean, including the carpets, windows, kitchen appliances, and bathrooms. Don’t forget to clean less obvious areas like skirting boards, light fixtures, and air vents. If cleaning seems overwhelming, consider hiring a professional cleaning service to ensure the property is spotless.
Remove any personal belongings and unnecessary items from the property, especially if it’s furnished. Keep the decor neutral and minimal to make it easier for prospective tenants to imagine themselves living in the space.
Before you rent out your house, it’s essential to address any repairs and ensure the property is in good working order. Tenants expect a well-maintained home, and fixing issues early can help you avoid costly maintenance requests later on.
Take care of any small repairs, such as:
These minor repairs can make a big difference in how potential tenants perceive the property.
Ensure that key systems such as plumbing, heating, and electrical wiring are in good condition. Have a professional check the boiler, water heater, and electrical system to ensure everything is working safely and efficiently.
If your property includes a garden, balcony, or outdoor space, make sure it’s well-maintained. Trim the grass, remove any weeds, and tidy up the area to create a positive first impression.
Before listing your property, decide whether to rent it furnished or unfurnished. This decision will depend on your target market and the type of tenants you’re hoping to attract.
If you choose to rent the property furnished, make sure that all furniture and appliances are in good condition, clean, and compliant with fire safety regulations.
As a landlord in London, there are several legal requirements you must meet before renting out your house. Ensuring your property complies with all safety and legal standards is not only a legal obligation but also helps protect you and your tenants.
You must arrange an annual Gas Safety inspection by a registered engineer to ensure all gas appliances, such as the boiler and oven, are safe to use. Once the inspection is complete, you’ll receive a Gas Safety Certificate, which must be provided to tenants.
All landlords in the UK are required to have an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), which ensures that your property’s electrical system is safe. The EICR is valid for five years and must be conducted by a qualified electrician.
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) rates the energy efficiency of your property. Your property must have an EPC rating of E or above to be rented out legally. This certificate is valid for 10 years and must be shown to prospective tenants before they sign a lease.
Ensure that working smoke alarms are installed on every floor of your house and that carbon monoxide detectors are fitted in rooms with fuel-burning appliances, such as gas boilers or fireplaces.
Some boroughs in London require landlords to have a landlord license before renting out their property. Check with your local council to see if this applies to your area.
Setting the right rental price is crucial to attracting tenants quickly and avoiding long vacancy periods.
Look at similar properties in your neighbourhood to get an idea of what other landlords are charging. Consider factors like the size, location, and condition of your home, as well as local amenities like transport links, schools, and shops.
For a more accurate figure, consider getting a professional rental valuation from a local estate agent or property expert like Fraser Bond. We can help you determine a competitive rent based on current market conditions and demand.
Once your house is ready, it’s time to create a compelling listing that attracts potential tenants. A well-crafted listing with high-quality photos and an engaging description will make a big difference in how quickly you can rent your property.
Photos are one of the most important aspects of your listing. Take bright, clear images of each room, including key areas like the kitchen, living room, and any outdoor space. If possible, hire a professional photographer to ensure your property looks its best.
Your property description should highlight the best features of your home, including:
Make sure to mention any special features such as a garden, balcony, or parking space, and provide clear details about the availability date and lease length.
To find tenants quickly, you need to advertise your property on the right platforms. Here are some of the best ways to market your rental property in London:
List your property on popular rental websites such as:
These platforms attract millions of renters every month and provide great exposure for your property.
If you’re renting your house without an agent, consider using OpenRent. This platform allows you to list your property directly and offers tools for tenant referencing and contract management.
Leverage social media platforms like Facebook Marketplace and local property groups to market your home. You can also share your listing on Instagram and Twitter using relevant hashtags like #LondonRentals or #LondonProperty.
Once you start receiving enquiries, it’s essential to screen tenants thoroughly to ensure they’re reliable and can pay rent on time.
Use tenant referencing services to conduct:
You can handle tenant referencing yourself or use services like OpenRent or HomeLet.
As a UK landlord, you are legally required to conduct a Right to Rent check to ensure that tenants have the legal right to rent in the UK. This involves verifying the tenant’s passport or immigration documents.
Preparing your house for rent in London involves more than just cleaning and repairs. From legal compliance to tenant screening, taking the time to prepare properly will help you attract quality tenants, avoid legal issues, and maximise your rental income.
If you need assistance with any part of the process, Fraser Bond offers expert property management services, from tenant sourcing to full management of your rental property. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you prepare your house for rent in London.
