Getting off on the right foot at the start of a landlord and tenant relationship sets the standard for the relationship going forward.
Ensuring you have the correct documentation in place and that your tenancy agreement accurately reflects your wishes is crucial to a successful rental.
Here, we look at some of the main documentation a landlord should compile before renting out a property.
1. Tenancy agreement.
A tenancy agreement is a contract between a landlord and their tenant(s) that sets out the legal terms and conditions of the tenancy. Most private lets in England have Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreements.
It should contain all pertinent information relating to the tenancy, including:
- The names of all the relevant parties.
- The address of the property.
- The start and end date of the tenancy.
- The rent amount and details of how it will be paid.
- What bills are included.
- The deposit amount and information about how it will be protected.
- Whether the property can be sublet.
- Whether pets are allowed.
- How the tenancy can be terminated.
- Landlord and tenant obligations, such as who is responsible for repairs and upkeep.
A tenancy agreement is a key document that underpins the relationship between landlord and tenant. It sets out each party’s respective rights and responsibilities and should be carefully drafted to ensure it is comprehensive and accurately the terms of your agreement.
It is worth getting a solicitor specialising in landlord and tenant law to help you with a tenancy agreement to ensure it provides adequate protection.
2. How to Rent Guide.
Landlords are legally required to provide tenants with a copy of the government’s How to Rent Guide, which sets out a landlord and tenant’s respective rights and responsibilities.
3. Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR).
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) assesses the electrical systems in a rental property to check that they are in good working order. An EICR needs to be reviewed by a qualified electrician every five years.
4. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) shows how energy efficient a property is by rating it from A to G. Currently, landlords can only let a property with an energy rating of E or above.
The Labour government has confirmed that landlords must ensure their rental properties achieve an EPC rating of at least grade C by 2030.
5. Inventory.
Although not a legal requirement, an inventory is advisable for all tenancies. It provides a written record of a property’s condition and contents and provides vital evidence if items are damaged or lost during a let.
The inventory should include information about:
- Fixtures and fittings.
- Flooring.
- Walls and ceilings.
- Doors and windows.
- Kitchen units and appliances.
- Furniture.
- Gardens.
- Outbuildings.
6. References.
Undertaking various checks helps landlords filter out any prospective tenants who might cause a problem.
Landlords should ask for work, credit and character references to ensure the tenant is employed, can afford to pay the rent and will look after the property.
Landlord and Tenant Solicitors
If you have any questions about landlord and tenant obligations or need clarification on any part of your responsibilities, get in touch with Berlad Graham LLP.
To speak to our friendly, experienced, professional landlord and tenant lawyers today, please call 0330 175 5655 or email info@bglaw.co.uk.
