Renting out your house in London without using an estate agent can save you money on fees and give you more control over the process. However, being a DIY landlord means you’ll need to handle everything from marketing your property to finding tenants and managing legal obligations. While this approach can be rewarding, it requires careful planning and organisation.
This guide will walk you through how to rent out your property in London without an agent, covering key steps such as advertising, tenant screening, legal requirements, and ongoing property management.
Before you list your house for rent, ensure it’s in good condition and meets legal standards. This will help you attract tenants and ensure your property complies with regulations.
Make sure your property is clean, well-maintained, and ready for viewings. Fix any minor issues, such as leaky taps or broken fixtures, and consider a fresh coat of paint if needed. A well-presented property appeals to tenants and can help you achieve a higher rent.
Decide whether you want to rent your property furnished or unfurnished. Furnished properties typically attract short-term renters or professionals, while unfurnished homes are more appealing to long-term tenants, such as families. Keep in mind that offering a furnished home may require additional maintenance, as you’ll be responsible for the provided items.
As a landlord, you have several legal responsibilities to ensure the safety and wellbeing of your tenants. Here’s what you need to do:
Setting the right rental price is crucial for attracting tenants quickly while maximising your rental income. Here’s how to determine the best price for your property:
Look at similar properties in your area to get an idea of what other landlords are charging. Consider factors such as location, property size, condition, and nearby amenities. Websites like Rightmove and Zoopla can help you compare rental prices in your neighbourhood.
Even if you’re renting out your property without an agent, it may be worth getting a rental valuation from a local letting agent. This will give you a more accurate understanding of the current market conditions and ensure you set a competitive rent.
Once your property is ready, it’s time to list it online and start attracting tenants. Here are some of the best platforms for advertising your rental property in London for free or at a low cost:
OpenRent is a popular platform for landlords who want to rent out their properties without using an agent. It offers a free basic listing and affordable upgrades, such as tenant referencing and digital contracts. OpenRent will also advertise your property on major property portals like Rightmove and Zoopla.
Gumtree is a widely used platform for renting out properties in the UK. You can list your property for free or choose a paid option to increase visibility. Gumtree is particularly popular with renters looking for short-term lets and budget-friendly properties.
Facebook Marketplace allows you to advertise your rental property for free. It’s a great way to reach a large audience, and you can share your listing in local property rental groups for even more exposure. Include high-quality photos and a detailed description to attract serious enquiries.
If you’re renting out a room in a shared house, SpareRoom is the leading platform for finding tenants. You can create a free listing and reach individuals looking for room rentals in London. SpareRoom is popular with students, young professionals, and those looking for flatshares.
When advertising your property, make sure your listing stands out by including:
Finding reliable tenants is crucial for a successful rental experience. Here’s how to screen tenants effectively:
You’ll want to ensure that potential tenants are financially stable and have a good rental history. You can carry out tenant referencing yourself by asking for:
You can also use paid tenant referencing services from platforms like OpenRent or HomeLet if you prefer a more comprehensive check.
In the UK, landlords are legally required to conduct Right to Rent checks to ensure that tenants have the legal right to rent. This involves verifying the tenant’s passport or immigration documents.
A tenancy agreement is a contract between you and your tenant that outlines the terms of the rental. The most common type of agreement in the UK is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST), which typically lasts for 6 to 12 months. Here’s what to include in the tenancy agreement:
It’s important to use a legally compliant tenancy agreement template. You can find free templates online or purchase one from a reputable source such as the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA).
When renting out a property, landlords must place the tenant’s deposit in a government-approved deposit protection scheme within 30 days of receiving it. This protects the deposit and ensures that disputes at the end of the tenancy are handled fairly. The three main deposit schemes in the UK are:
Provide your tenant with the required deposit protection documents, as failure to do so can result in legal penalties.
Once your tenants have moved in, managing the property is your responsibility. This includes:
Renting out your house in London without an agent can save you money and give you more control over the rental process. However, it’s essential to ensure you meet all legal requirements and manage the property effectively to create a successful rental experience.
If you need expert advice or support at any stage, Fraser Bond can provide guidance on renting out your property independently while ensuring compliance with UK regulations. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with property management and letting services.
