Whether you are a new landlord or have multiple properties in your portfolio, we can help you.
We offer the following services:
Service can be tailored to landlord requirements but could include the following:
Required documents:
Required checks:
Will your property comply with the Renters’ Rights initiative? Whether you are a first-time landlord or have multiple properties in your portfolio there are upcoming changes to renters’ rights.
Changes will impact:
A landlord or their managing agent will usually schedule two inspections a year which will be agreed with the tenant in advance. These visits, which will be carried out by an independent inventory company, will check the property condition. A report will be provided for both Landlord and Tenant to sign.
The Tenant is advised who to contact for maintenance issues. A response to the issue can be expected within 24 hours and a resolution within 48 hours. If a resolution cannot be found within 48 hours due to it’s nature, the tenant will be kept informed of progress.
After initial check-in the property is inspected free of charge twice a year by an independent company using dedicated lettings inventory software. A report is provided for tenant and landlord and issues arising from the inspection are discussed with the landlord. The aim of these checks is to identify problems before they become worse and more expensive to repair. Damp, tree roots and dripping taps are good examples.
With the exception of urgent issues, general maintenance jobs are discussed with landlords prior to starting work. Heating or plumbing issues, broken appliances and faulty sockets are good examples. The landlord can use their own supplier or Smooth Move can arrange one of their own.
For issues relating to gas, electricity, water and security Smooth Move may organise an inspection or work prior to discussing the job with the landlord.
For both mid-term checks and general maintenance, trades people who have been vetted by Smooth Move for their skills, reliability, regulatory certification and overall professionalism are chosen. Occasionally trade partners are changed if they don’t meet required standards including administration of paperwork.
Smooth Move do not add a handling fee to trade suppliers’ work.
Smooth Move are not responsible for the property structure.
Assured Shorthold Tenancies can be renewed at the end of the first year’s tenancy if the tenant wishes to stay.
If the landlord wishes to raise the rent, two month’s notice is given to the tenant who can accept, negotiate or refuse.
The process is one of negotiation where all parties come to an appropriate solution giving consideration to many factors and this is handled by Smooth Move.
If the landlord wants the property back, a section 21 and two month’s notice is required for the tenant to vacate.
For more information on tenancy types, rent increases, the renewal process and vacating a tenant, a Smooth Move representative will provide more information.
A full inventory will be taken and tenants must make good any repairs other than general wear and tear. Landlords will receive a copy of the check-out report. If there are no repairs needed, the deposit will be returned to the tenant in full. Keys are then collected from the tenant ready for the handover.
Landlords in the UK must adhere to strict safety regulations in order to protect tenants.
Gas Safety (Installation & Use) Government Guidelines. All installations must be checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. A gas safety record must be issued every twelve months, and a copy issued to tenants. It must also be available for every new tenant. Non-compliance is a serious offence and can lead to a custodial sentence.
The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Government Guidelines. All electrical testing must be carried out by a qualified and registered engineer. An Electrical Installation Condition Report should be carried out every 5 years and must be available for a new tenancy. Any plug, socket or adaptor must meet current and relevant British Standards. Plugs must have correct fuse – approved adaptors must be used on appliances with non-UK plugs. All landlord-supplied appliances will be automatically PAT tested as part of the EICR, however if a tenant vacates a property and leaves their own appliance this must be PAT tested separately.
The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Government Guidelines. It is a criminal offence to let premises with upholstered furniture than does not comply with safety regulations. This law covers such items as beds, headboards, futons, sofas, scatter cushions etc. Most furniture bought since 1988 from a reputable source should be labelled indicating compliance.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarm Government Guidelines. Smoke alarms should be fitted on every floor. Carbon Monoxide alarms should be fitted within one metre of each gas appliance. Alarms can be mains or battery operated.
Any Smooth Move team member will be able to give you further information on all of this.
90% of properties are required unfurnished and already have and prefer to continue to use their own furniture.
Furnished properties require extra paperwork including fire retardant certification which adds to a landlord’s responsibility.
It is the landlord’s responsibility to familiarise themselves with all of the following:
Landlords are responsible for checking their own tax position before letting a property. This includes landlords who live overseas.
Be aware if permission is needed to let a property. You may need to check with the following:
Full Management Service
Bespoke Let Only Service
