References satisfied, time to take the advance rent and deposit.
Due to recent UK Legislation in terms of what you can charge a tenant, the maximum deposit has been capped at five weeks equivalent of the rent you charge.
It is standard practice to also take the first months rent in advance, with the rent payments commencing the following month onwards.
Secure the deposit with an approved governmental supported scheme. Either the Deposit Protection Service, Tenancy Deposit Scheme, or MyDeposits.
Conducting a check-in inventory.
We rave on about inventories, whether check-in, check-out, or mid-term inspection. All are incredibly important! A check-in inventory – will log and record all aspects of the property. From its exact condition, room to room, to the contents, and the fixtures & fittings in the property.
You’ll also record the meter readings for all accessible meters, such as gas and electric, if the water meter is in the property, record that too and take photos throughout.
Signing and handing over of documents.
First up, the tenancy agreement. showing how much rent is to be paid, the deposit amount that was taken, dates of rent due to be paid, as well as much more specifically relating to the do’s and don’ts of what you allow in the property.
Further to this, there is a legal requirement to ensure that hard-copies of a ‘How To Rent Guide’ and ‘Understanding Damp and Mould’ leaflet are supplied to the tenant. You should draw up a document to this effect, and they’ll sign to acknowledge receipt of it. Keep this as evidence for future reference.
Hand over the keys!
Give them a guided tour, explain where gas and electricity meters are. Make the process as easy as possible, your tenants will really appreciate it.
Let the energy suppliers, water company and local council know of the new move-in, the new tenants details, and from that day onwards they’ll be entirely responsible for the bills that are due!