Tips For Promoting Your Buy-To-Let To Prospective Tenants

Owning a buy-to-let property and renting it out can be a great way to generate additional income. However, in order to find and retain quality tenants, landlords need to put effort into making their rental property as appealing as possible.

About our guest blogger:
Dakota Murphey has experience in property management with her portfolio of properties expanding in the South of England. Her passion for renovation and home improvement projects is shared through her writing to help educate and inspire others.

As a buy-to-let landlord, it’s important to understand how to best promote your property so you can fill vacancies faster and keep tenants satisfied. Consider the following suggestions to help set your buy-to-let up for success and make the process of finding responsible tenants much smoother.

Whether you’re renting out a studio flat or a spacious house, these promotion strategies are key for any new landlord getting started in the buy-to-let market.

Choosing the right property

When searching for an investment property to rent out, location is key. Look for properties near public transportation lines, restaurants, parks and other conveniences that tenants will find desirable. The more amenities and attractions nearby, the more likely you are to attract tenant interest.

Evaluate the layout and size of the property as well. Studios and one-bedroom units often rent quickly, providing a steady tenant flow. Expand your search to include both flats as well as single-family homes. Pet-friendly properties with outdoor spaces also appeal to a wide pool of potential tenants, so permit pets if possible. Choosing the right buy-to-let property that offers features tenants want will give your rental an advantage over the competition.

Getting the word out

To maximise exposure for your buy-to-let property, utilise both digital and traditional marketing tactics. First, list the property on major property platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla or look for online estate agents in your area. These sites attract millions of monthly visitors searching for their next rental.

You also want to promote the listing on your social media accounts, especially if you have local follower bases, and share posts showcasing listing photos and encourage shares among friends and followers.

One of the most influential ways you can showcase your properties is with landing pages, which can include images, videos and trust signals. These are signs that validate your business as reputable, such as testimonials, logo accreditations or reviews. Where possible, factor in location too, by using local geo-tagged hashtags to connect with local renters browsing on social media.

Work with nearby rental agents, as they may have clients looking for properties just like yours. Offering a referral fee incentive can motivate agents to recommend your property. Leveraging both digital and personal connections will get your buy-to-let in front of the most prospective tenants.

Offering virtual tours

Virtual tours have become an expectation for today’s renters. Offering digital walkthroughs of your buy-to-let property will improve the tenant experience and your listing’s exposure.

A videographer can record a tour while walking through the rental, capturing each room in detail. This allows out-of-town prospects to fully tour the property without travelling on-site first. You can also use rental tour apps that allow prospects to take their own virtual tour using a mobile device. Apps sync images of the property into an interactive digital display.

Virtual tours create excitement and help prospects feel connected to the property before even seeing it in person. Top virtual tour platforms make it easy for prospects to share the tour link with others too. Consider adding a 3D floor plan created as well, which gives prospective tenants an immersive experience touring your property digitally.

Compelling listing descriptions

The listing description for your buy-to-let is another critical marketing component. Craft copy that sells the property’s amenities and location. Open with an attention-grabbing first sentence highlighting the property’s best feature. For example, lead with the recently updated kitchen or prime location just steps from the train station.

You can use search engine optimisation (SEO) best practices in your description too. Incorporate relevant keywords like the neighbourhood name, “near the park,” or “newly renovated” throughout the copy. Optimising for local SEO helps listings rank higher in localised searches and attracts people in the area who are looking for a property.

Be sure to list all of the property’s amenities and updates to convey value. Include the year appliances were replaced, heating and cooling systems, parking options and any storage or outdoor spaces. It’s also worth discussing the proximity to transportation lines, restaurants, shops and parks. Busy professionals want rentals close to conveniences.

Provide welcome packs

Make a great first impression and welcome prospective tenants with a thoughtful welcome pack. This is a useful tool for establishing a positive landlord-tenant relationship before they’ve signed on to the property, and establishes your reputation early on.

The welcome pack should include essential documents like the lease agreement and an inventory checklist. Providing these upfront ensures the tenant understands their rental contract obligations and the property’s condition at move-in.

It’s also worth sharing information to help new tenants settle into the area, such as guides on local attractions, restaurants, public transit maps, waste collection schedules and other local services. Features such as these can make or break a property for tenants, so knowing the information up front helps you find the right people for your property.

Follow up with tenants shortly after their viewing to ask if they have any additional questions. Being proactive and helpful sets the stage for smooth ongoing relations, especially if they’re looking to move in quickly. Investing time into furnishing new tenants with a robust and thorough welcome pack pays dividends through improved satisfaction and retention, and may even swing the vote in your favour if they’re deciding between several properties.

Successfully renting out your buy-to-let property requires grabbing prospective tenants’ attention in a crowded rental market. Implementing the right marketing strategies will help your listing stand out. Dedicate time upfront to make your buy-to-let shine both online and in person. Being proactive with your marketing will help attract qualified tenants faster so you can start generating rental income sooner. Use these tips to keep your buy-to-let occupied with responsible renters who will care for it as their home.

Property Management Priorities: Key Checks In The Colder Months

As the weather turns colder, property managers, agents and landlords in charge of their buildings’ upkeep will shift their focus to a winter maintenance checklist. The colder temperatures can often bring unique challenges that require attention and professional services.

Making sure managed properties are in good condition will go a long way to keeping tenants and residents safe and comfortable. Preventing any problems with heating or mould build-up, for example, will help you to avoid getting embroiled in a dispute with tenants or with anyone occupying a poorly kept building. From servicing boilers and bleeding radiators to fire-safety regulations and chimney sweeps, there are key tasks to consider before the freezing temperatures hit home.

This article will outline the main maintenance concerns to tick off to ensure managed properties stay in tip top condition throughout winter.

Organise a checklist and call in contractors

Staying on top of property maintenance during the coldest season of the year is important because freezing weather can create a unique set of issues, such as a propensity for mould, damp or cracks in wooden frames. Naturally the heating is ramped up and fires are lit, so it’s good to have a thorough checklist of issues and possible repairs to be aware of.

If you’re managing the property as a landlord or letting agent yourself, look out for the usual and not so common issues that can help to prevent needless work further down the line. This will save you money and hassle in the long term. If need be, you can contract the checks to a property management service who will draft in fitters, electricians and site supervisors to tackle essential repairs quickly and efficiently.

Inspect boilers, radiators and heaters

As colder weather moves in, optimised functioning heating systems are essential for keeping properties sustainable, sufficiently warm and preventing disruptive and costly breakdowns. Booking in your annual boiler service and giving any HVAC equipment the once over is a recommendation. Engineers can thoroughly inspect components for wear and efficiency, undertaking preventative repairs and adjustments to ensure reliable operation throughout winter.

During essential winter checks can be a good time to invest in renewable energies, taking advantage of the government’s zero tax incentives and Boiler Upgrade Scheme (BUS). Consider upgrading to more energy-efficient heating equipment by switching from fossil-fuelled heating systems to low carbon solutions.

On a practical level, radiators prone to irregular heat distribution can be bled to eliminate trapped air restricting flow. Simply bleeding all radiator valves can also help improve circulation efficiency ahead of sub-zero temperatures. Likewise, inspecting exposed water pipes and tanks to confirm adequate insulation remains in place helps guard against freezing and burst pipes.

Testing thermostatic radiator valves and smart timers for accuracy is worth doing to optimise heating levels indoors. Engineers can recalibrate thermostats during your annual service appointment if particular rooms feel colder than the settings might suggest. During the current cost-of-living crisis, getting heating controls right in people’s properties will be a priority for everyone concerned.

Read up on regulations

Paying attention to winter property checks is a key part of your annual property-maintenance routine. Being conscientious is not only professional, it demonstrates your duty of care to anyone residing in the properties you manage.

Part of the UK Government’s Fitness for Human Habitation (FFHH) standards state properties with tenants must be in a good condition. Maintaining even these standards are important so property managers, agents and landlords must evaluate and address some major points, including:

  • Properties must be well-maintained and not allowed to become dilapidated. Structural stability and freedom from dampness are also assessed.

  • The positioning of amenities and rooms must be safe for inhabitants.

  • Lighting and ventilation – Indoor spaces must have adequate natural light and air flow.

  • Adequate hot and cold water supplies must be provisioned and wastewater drainage via properly functioning pipes and sanitary conveniences.

Check windows and doors

Preventing heat loss through poorly insulated windows and doors is not eco-friendly and will not help residents keep their energy bills down when they most need to. It can make a significant difference in tenant comfort and energy efficiency. Carefully checking around all frames for gaps, cracks, or deterioration of existing sealant is advised. Ensure all entrance doors close and lock securely which is crucial for anyone who manages access to communal areas.

Doors or windows letting in draughts should have rubber seals replaced and gaps re-caulked to limit air infiltration. Applying supplementary insulation, especially to older timber framed windows lacking modern double or triple glazing will also help reduce condensation during very cold spells. For frequently used external doors, brush or draught excluder seals fitted along the bottom edge can hamper cold air entering whilst still enabling ease of access.

Prioritise fire safety

With fire safety being a priority in everyone’s homes, the risk of fires is statistically higher in the UK winter which is why extra caution is needed. According to government statistics, three fires a day are caused by heaters and an average 3,800 chimney fires occur every year. Therefore, you need to ensure your property has a robust set of fire safety safeguards in place this winter.

Make sure that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are correctly positioned and working well and that any fire extinguishers, both communal and within flats are ok. Emergency exits and stairwells should also be cleared. During the festive period reports of fires go up with the prevalence attributed to four main factors: Christmas decorations, candles, heating equipment and cooking, so being extra vigilant is key.

Sweep chimneys and improve ventilation

If the property you manage or let has a chimney, it’s a good idea to have it swept ahead of winter. Accumulated soot and debris poses a considerable fire hazard and risk of poisonous fumes entering living spaces. Be sure to employ a qualified chimney sweep to fully clean flues, spot any damage or nest obstructions. They can also service any wood burning stoves that have been out of use for a while.

Ventilation units will likewise need checking, especially extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms that might be prone to mould growth from poorly circulated air. Wall/ceiling vents should be cleared of dust and any broken covers or ducting repaired. Improving ventilation in a property during winter is a main method of preventing condensation. With the health hazard of mould in people’s living spaces making headlines in recent years, it’s vital to prevent mould growth early on for property managers and people renting or occupying your buildings.

As a property manager it can be hard to guarantee a problem-free winter, but with advanced preparation or professional management assistance, you can certainly help to minimise complaints from tenants, prevent potential health hazards and ward off costly emergencies.

How To Safeguard The Contents Of A Holiday Rental

Staying in holiday rentals is the preferred choice for many keen travellers. Staying in a beautiful property located in a desirable spot can make a holiday much more special, providing travellers with the freedom to spread out and enjoy the home away from home experience to the fullest. Embedding themselves into a new locale is much easier if they are staying somewhere with full amenities and optimum comfort.

Having said that, holiday-goers cannot afford to overlook security and safety when choosing rental properties. Unlike hotels, private rentals don’t have front desk staff working around the clock, keeping tabs on everyone who comes and goes within the vicinity. Safeguards like alarm systems, cameras, and other technologies aren’t always guaranteed when staying in an overseas holiday rental, no matter how exotic or tranquil it might be. This is why you must rely on your own common sense and due diligence of holiday rental portals and the property manager or owner.

While it’s likely that most holiday rentals are perfectly safe and offer sufficient protection, it’s always wise to take precautions to ensure your belongings are protected during your stay, as well as your own peace of mind. Follow these tips to ensure that your next overseas excursion is safe and stress-free.

Verify your host and listing

Whether you’re booking your accommodation through a reputable local estate agent, which is normal in countries like Spain or via a trusted property portal, it’s always crucial to ensure that your rental property’s host and/or owner is legitimate.

While all reliable providers will take steps to ensure that all listings are authentic and not misleading, some scams or fraudulent listings do slip through the cracks. Therefore, you should check the property’s reviews and listings carefully and methodically before placing your booking.

Here are some other things to look out for and verify:

  • Look for verified accounts; established hosts with plenty of good reviews are less likely to be running a scam. Platforms like Airbnb have badges for seasoned, reputable hosts.

  • Check all the intricate listing details. Do photos seem professional? Are amenities, house rules, and other details fully outlined? Scam listings tend to have sparse info and seem quite sales-y and desperate in their prose.

  • Search listing addresses. Run the address through a search to see if it’s a known rental property. Fake listings may use fabricated or non-residential addresses, while others may be in rough areas with minimal security.

  • Communicate through the platform to confirm all details. Don’t go off-platform to email or text with a host, keep all exchanges on the official rental site, and go through the vendor if any alarm bells ring.

  • Use secure payment methods. Pay only through the rental platform, never via wire transfer or cash. Legitimate, trusted owners won’t ask you to pay outside the site or application.

Taking a few minutes to vet listings and hosts can help you avoid bogus listings and ensure you’re dealing with a real rental owner.

Research the neighbourhood

Once you’ve booked your accommodation, familiarise yourself with the surrounding area before and during your stay. This will help you make more informed decisions and understand the real-world risks at play.

  • Learn and comply with local laws. Some Airbnb properties may have strict curfews or regulations to adhere to, while areas themselves may have to keep noise to a minimum after a certain time. Ensure that you’re capable of meeting these expectations.

  • Popular tourist or attraction locations often draw more thieves and scammers. Rentals on their outskirts may be safer. Even if it means you have to venture slightly further afield, you could be making yourselves inherently safer.

  • Ask the host for tips. Your host can offer guidance on safe areas, neighbourhoods to avoid, and other local insights. Ultimately, if they care about your custom, they will want to ensure you are comfortable and safe.

Arriving clued into all neighbourhood conditions allows you to make smart, situation-appropriate choices for a safe stay.

Secure entrances and access points

Entryways are a common vulnerability for vacation rentals. Secure all possible access points as much as possible to prevent intrusions and unwarranted trespassing:

  • Lock windows and doors. Check that all ground-floor windows have locking mechanisms. Close curtains or blinds at night and definitely don’t leave doors unlocked, even when you’re there.

  • Check for hidden or spare keys; these may be concealed under fake rocks, planters, or other innocuous ornaments. If necessary, liaise with the host about their whereabouts or remove them if not needed.

  • Remember passcodes. If using a keypad lock with an access code, make sure codes are memorable but not easily guessable like ‘1234’. Don’t share codes publicly. Property managers should ensure that passwords are changed for each booking.

  • Limit copies of physical keys. If you use traditional keyed locks, there should be minimal duplicate copies to prevent misuse. Have a rekeying policy for lost keys.

For owners, securing a holiday home doesn’t need to cost much either. The most important point is to control and limit entry access points to keep your rental and belongings secure against intrusions.

Ask about security systems

Confirm any of the property’s built-in security technology with your host. Does the rental have security cameras, alarms, or other systems that enhance safety?

Ask your host about existing features or options to add:

  • Outdoor cameras. Exterior cameras covering entryways can deter and record trespassers. Make sure they are not unnecessarily invasive and easy to use.

  • Interior cameras. Indoor cameras provide further monitoring but may make some guests uncomfortable, so confirm whether you are at liberty to turn them off once you are inside.

  • Burglar alarms. Monitored systems can automatically alert authorities of a break-in. Ensure the host explains how to operate it.

  • Motion detectors. These systems turn on lights and send alerts when they detect activity, helping deter potential thieves.

  • Safe boxes. Provide a secure place to store valuables like passports, jewellery, and electronics.

Ask your host upfront what measures are in place to ensure that the property’s security fits your comfort level.

Use your common sense

Your own habits also help keep a holiday rental secure:

  • Whether you’re there or not, keep entryways locked at all times and never prop open doors.

  • Don’t post your location. Be cautious about posting travel photos publicly while away that reveal your location.

  • Conceal valuables. Keep cash, electronics, jewellery, and travel documents out of sight in bags, drawers, or safe boxes.

  • Vary routines. Don’t stick to the same patterns of coming and going from the premises or leaving at the same time every day.

Staying alert helps avoid making yourself an easy target while travelling.

Overseas holiday rentals can be welcoming and alluring accommodations for many keen travellers. They provide more space, flexibility and amenities than hotels or hostels, even if they come at a slightly higher price on average. By vetting all listings and asking the right questions ahead of your stay, you can stay vigilant and create unforgettable travel memories while being as safe as possible.

The Pros And Cons Of Smart Locks For Home Security

With smart homes growing in number each year and smart technology becoming more widely available, it’s clear that the UK property market is experiencing a blossoming trend for homes that centre around technology and automation.

As smart technology often adds to a property’s value and appeal, it’s important for estate agents to offer practical advice on whether their clients stand to benefit by integrating smart tech into their properties. For instance, will installing smart locks add more value to a property up for sale or appeal to renters if home security tops their wish list?

Smart technology in general exists to not only give homeowners more control of their energy usage but also to make their lives more convenient and their homes more secure. Smart lock systems, meanwhile, are a modern home feature that has gained popularity in recent years, also providing added convenience for homeowners and tenants of rental properties.

When it comes to analysing the benefits of smart door locks, convenience should never come at a cost to our security and safety. This is why estate agents and landlords need to understand the inherent security risks associated in order to make fully-informed decisions about adopting smart door locks in favour of tried-and-tested, traditional keyed locks.

This article will look at the benefits, risks and best practices of installing a smart lock system in your property, as well as common security vulnerabilities to be mindful of.

Possible benefits of smart door locks

Smart door and window locks provide some advantages for homeowners, landlords, and tenants.

Secure and seamless entry

Smart locks eliminate the need for residents to hold and fumble around for sets of keys, which can be handy when arriving at the property with your hands full. By allowing immediate and easy access through key fobs, PIN codes, smartphone scanning software or biometric data like fingerprints, residents can gain access to their property in plenty of convenient and non-invasive ways.

Integration with the smart home

Some smart locks pair easily with existing systems, such as alarms, security and surveillance cameras, and other smart home devices like lights. This can create a futuristic feel for a property which appeals to a certain kind of buyer or tenant.

Control and visibility

Some smart locks use apps to remotely lock or unlock doors, grant temporary access and monitor ‌activity from anywhere in the world. This can particularly helpful if you live far away or spend large periods away from home, providing you with a convenient solution to keep an eye on your estate without worrying.

Many smart door lock solutions come with additional features such as real-time notifications and alerts to give homeowners full visibility over who enters and when. Time-stamped activity logs also provide them with additional insights and control. If something doesn’t look right, homeowners can grant (or refuse) access to anybody who they deem necessary.

There are, however, a number of factors to consider before agents and landlords see this as a silver bullet for managing access to rental property (see below).

Potential Challenges of Smart Locks in 2023

Getting a reliable connection

In the majority of Smart locks, the more advanced functionality (such as being able to grant a person access from anywhere in the world) relies heavily on the lock having a connection to the internet. This often means attaching the locks in some way to a home Wi-Fi network. Although home Wi-Fi is getting more reliable all the time, the majority still wouldn’t rely on it for the essential security of their property.

Landlords are often not responsible for the internet provision to the tenant, meaning that they can’t rely on the tenant setting things up correctly for correct operation of the smart lock. There is still a danger of smart locks becoming just one more thing that needs to be maintained with the work required outstripping the benefits.

Sharing access

It’s tempting to see smart locks as a great solution to the problem of managing keys faced by landlords, tenants and agents alike. If all parties can have access to a smart lock, then it becomes easier for access to be provided when needed. At least, in theory. In practice, most domestic smart locks are really designed around a single family to use, and don’t allow for easily sharing of control between different parties in a tenancy contract. It introduces a number of problems around who has control to the smart lock apps. Who assigns new users.

Many agents and tenants alike would be concerned that different teams of people would all need to be trained in each different type of smart lock. Most agents don’t want the risk of a team member accidentally opening up access to a property because they didn’t understand the app properly.

What happens when it goes wrong?

There are many reasons why smart locks can go wrong in practice. Aside from connectivity, the most common is a power failure. Most smart locks rely on a battery, which if not changed, can lead to tenants being locked out. Most have a a backup mechanism such as external battery contacts or a USB port to attach a phone- but they rely on the occupier having the correct battery or charging cable with them when they need it- not at all likely if it’s late at night!

Other smart locks still have a backup key to allow manual unlocks- this is perhaps the best solution, but still requires keys to be carried and managed by the interested parties.

Addressing potential vulnerabilities

While smart door and window locks offer plenty of security benefits, agents and landlords must be mindful of certain risks before any smart lock is installed. If not properly addressed, these possible risks could manifest into larger problems.

Cyber attacks and hacks

Cybercrime is rife at the moment, and hackers might attempt to intercept wireless communication between devices. Unprotected and unpatched networks and devices will make that easier. If a controlling device is compromised, a hacker could potentially disrupt the connection between it and the lock.

This is why it’s important to deploy a solution that ensures encrypted connections between devices, as well as regular security patches to prevent any breaches.

Unpatched software

Firmware that is not updated or patched can expose smart lock systems to more vulnerabilities and hacking risks. If prompted, you should always ensure that you install recommended security patches to ensure core systems remain as secure as possible. You should also do this for any other smart home technology that you have, as it only takes one breach for all interconnected devices to become vulnerable.

Access code theft

If smart lock access codes are compromised, it means that unauthorised individuals could gain access to your property. This is why enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA) protocols like biometric verification, SMS or email access codes, or phone calls to trusted devices can be a valuable additional layer of security. You can install reputable third-party authenticator apps to verify all legitimate requests and refuse any that have not come from a trusted device.

Best practices for optimal security

There is no denying the fact that smart locks present some security risks. However, if landlords and estate agents can address these known risks and instil the preventative measures outlined below, security can be maximised.

Choose reputable brands

Make sure that you choose a trusted smart lock provider with proven security experience and one that is transparent about its approach. Make sure that you consider the relevance of all your solution’s features, whether it’s anti-hacking software, regular security patching or smart integration with other software.

Secure networks and devices

Make sure that you set your software to update all security patches automatically, as this will ensure all known vulnerabilities are promptly addressed and safeguarded. Don’t exclusively do this for your smart locks, but for all connected smart home devices, as this will ensure optimum security within your property.

Ensure that the Wi-Fi network (which the smart lock system will connect to) is also secure with a strong, unique password. Make sure that you change your network’s default username and password.

Implement MFA and real-time monitoring

If available, make sure that your smart lock system and app have multi-factor authentication features enabled. This will ensure that you (or another trusted resident) receive codes or prompts to verify the identity of whomever is trying to access the property, and thus will safeguard you and your possessions from potential theft or damage.

By integrating your smart lock software with a smart CCTV or camera system, you’ll be a step closer to achieving real-time visibility over your property. Landlords and estate agents can consider partnering with a reputable penetration testing expert that can provide 24/7 monitoring, as well as immediate assistance in case a system is compromised.

Smart locks: the future of secure property access?

As smart technology continues to affect the UK lettings and sales sector, you can expect to see Smart Locks becoming more compelling in the years to come. Traditional keyed locks are not going to go away, and certainly not anytime soon, however, smart locks will gradually become a more preferred option over time. As the market matures, the problems of today will become easier to solve.

Digital Tools Streamlining Commercial Property Inspections And Surveying

Commercial property surveys and inspections have remained relatively formulaic for decades. The crucial due diligence process of inspecting and surveying properties has remained relatively unchanged for some time.

That said, new technologies are emerging that serve to make this tick-box exercise much faster, more accurate and more efficient for commercial agents and property managers. From mobile applications to 3D scanning to drones, Proptech innovations are changing the inspection landscape significantly, cutting down on manual efforts and alleviating agents from excessive, tiresome and labour-intensive paperwork.

Find out some of the most innovative and intuitive tech that looks set to transform the ways that commercial properties can be routinely inspected and surveyed.

Automated and AI-powered defect detection

Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are two intertwined technologies that are causing widespread disruption in many industries, and property is no different. While it’s no secret that AI can transform agents’ content marketing, lead generation and data entry efforts, the tech can also be used as the backbone for visual inspection solutions.

AI-powered software can autonomously detect defects and issues in buildings, based on insights and data from surveys, and therefore automate many of the laborious and time-consuming parts of manual property inspections.

Inspection tools such as TensorFlight can provide in-depth visualisations of properties, while using AI to highlight potential areas for further inspection and deeper analysis, meaning surveyors can dedicate their time and efforts to the most imperative tasks.

By leveraging automation, surveyors and commercial estate agents can intelligently analyse images, models and datasets to identify problem areas such as dampness, corrosion, asbestos, and so on.

Drones and UAVs to access high-up or hard-to-reach areas

Drones have become an invaluable tool for commercial property surveyors, enabling access to difficult areas like roofs, chimneys, gutters and facades, as well as the external walls of high-rise buildings and blocks of flats.

Equipped with high-resolution cameras, drones can capture detailed imagery and videos of a building’s external condition. Built-in photo-capturing software can then stitch these images and video content together into sophisticated, immersive models that can provide detailed inspection maps for surveyors and agents.

Providing this extent of data and photographic evidence makes report generation much more detailed and efficient; it’s no surprise that surveyors are regularly using these UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) to conduct greater numbers of detailed RICS Homebuyer surveys and reports.

Drone deployments are much safer and faster than manual inspections of hard-to-reach areas. They also cause no disruption to a building’s occupants and are relatively easy to learn with minimal training.

3D laser scanning for precise digital replication

Static LiDAR technology – another word for terrestrial laser scanning – is becoming vital for commercial building surveys and inspections. Tripod-mounted scanners allow surveyors to deliver more comprehensive surveys, capturing very specific areas or everything within view, with individual scans distributed within a few seconds. The scans are condensed and aggregated to construct detailed 3D property models.

These scans pick up all physical and structural details at millimetre-level accuracy, which can then be used to create bespoke, detailed floor plans, flythroughs, elevations and supporting imagery for property listings. Everything is geospatially located with precise measurements and details. Using this highly sophisticated technology, professionals can inspect a property’s condition and identify defects with ease, often in real-time.

Dynamic mobile apps for improved accessibility and analysis

Mobile applications can make inspection reports much more sophisticated, usable and shareable for all stakeholders involved in a property transaction. Surveyors can use mobile applications to capture HD photos, videos, annotate images, and deploy measurements directly on-site, and subsequently embed these assets in their reports.

Interactive floor plans can also be created as a result of the images and supporting measurement data, thus making navigation and analysis easier. With these assets backed up by detailed, timestamped analytics, defects and issues can be identified with greater accuracy and efficiency.

Having inspection data in accessible and visual formats enhances understanding for clients. It also enables improved maintenance and repair scope planning. Commercial Estate Agents can find end-to-end platforms for defect detection and 3D CAD floor plan rendering, such as AutoCAD LT from Autodesk

Exercising caution with human oversight

While property technology tools provide significant cost- and time-saving benefits, they can’t replace the need for qualified professionals conducting on-site assessments and inspections‌.

Comprehensive building surveys and inspections still require meticulous attention to detail and expert human skill, experience, and opinion for all elements. While technology can certainly improve productivity and automate many manual components of the surveying process, we are still at a point where we can’t entirely entrust all aspects to computers and algorithms.

With people supervising and managing the use of this technology effectively, surveyors and professionals can use their natural senses like smell, hearing, and touch which technology can’t detect or replicate as easily. These insights can therefore be married with the real-time data that apps and tools have already aggregated to make reports more comprehensive and primarily human-driven.

The optimal approach blends traditional techniques with new technologies for more rigorous and complete surveys.

Enhanced due diligence for agents and property managers

For agents and property management professionals, the emergence of new proptech tools makes the due diligence processes much more enhanced for sales, lettings, and ongoing asset management purposes.

The baseline documentation derived from drone imagery and scans makes the property condition reports more comprehensive during the acquisition stage. From this, comparisons can be drawn with images taken down the line, thus making future repairs more accurate and easy to identify and schedule.

Ongoing maintenance scans at regular intervals can identify emerging defects early. Having detailed digital defect reports also aids in repair scope planning and contractor management.

Technologies like automated AI analysis provide more consistent and objective insight, while still allowing for manual assessment by experienced surveyors.

Overall these innovations in technology mean commercial property professionals can provide clients with greater transparency, scrutiny and planning abilities when it comes to the built environment. This raises trust and satisfaction for vendors, buyers, and landlords under contract with agents.

It’s hopefully clear to see that the adoption of proptech tools requires the right strategic approach for them to be optimally effective. Their benefits are clear, in that they can streamline and automate many of the cumbersome aspects of surveying while delivering greater insights, detail and analytics. The key is harnessing and leveraging the technology to make the process work for each end user, and not viewing apps and software as sufficient replacements for hardworking property professionals.

Leveraging the strengths of technology and marrying them with your own methodical approaches and real-world experience will allow agents to reap more of their benefits. From this, smarter management, leasing, selling, and investment calculation decisions can be made. In the near future, it’s evident that we will see the further integration of emerging technologies within the property sector, paving the way for more productive and insightful approaches.

If you can successfully embrace and implement the technology and tools available now, it will work in your favour down the line.

How Might The Renters Reform Bill Impact Lettings Agents?

Initially proposed in 2019, but delayed numerous times, many property professionals believed that the Renters Reform Bill would be postponed indefinitely. But in May 2023, the UK Government announced that they still intended to move forward with these legislative changes and it was back on the agenda.

With big changes on the horizon for the rental market, it has naturally led many letting agents and landlords to wonder how these changes will affect them and their businesses.

What are the changes to the Renters Reform Bill?

The Renters Reform Bill is being presented by the Government as a solution to improve relations between tenants and landlords. The primary goal of the bill is to eliminate the small fraction of criminal landlords, thereby improving the reputation of private landlords as a whole and minimising disputes. The majority of landlords already provide safe and comfortable properties for their tenants but these positive changes come alongside significant rent reform measures that will impact landlords.

The proposed changes for the Renters Reform Bill include:

  • End to ‘no-fault’ Section 21 evictions

  • Landlords aren’t legally allowed to unreasonably refuse tenants with pets

  • Landlords can’t reject tenants on benefits

  • Landlords must not discriminate against tenants with children

  • All privately rented residential properties have to meet the Decent Homes Standard

  • Landlords must become members of a private rental Ombudsman.

The Renters Reform Bill is being introduced to improve the private rented housing sector in the UK. The private rental market makes up a significant portion of housing in the UK, with over 4 million properties being privately rented, a number that has doubled since 2004.

The Government has identified several issues with the current private rented legislation. First, some renters face uncertainty and lack of security in their housing, particularly due to Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions that allow landlords to evict tenants without cause. Secondly, responsible landlords face difficulties competing with criminal landlords who break the rules. One examples might be not respecting a tenant’s right to be asked before permitting landlords legitimate access to a property.

While the Renters Reform Bill aims to address some of these issues, the Government has further goals for improving the private rented sector. Nearly a quarter of private rented homes do not meet basic standards of decency, and the Government hopes to implement the Decent Homes Standard for private rentals in the future to improve quality and conditions.

How will the changes affect Letting Agents?

The Renters Reform Bill will bring mixed effects for letting agents. While details remain unconfirmed, letting agents must stay up to date and help landlords understand the changes. Landlords with portfolios of all sizes are already asking letting agents about new measures like the Property Ombudsman and property portals, so agents must respond knowledgeably about the Renters Reform Bill. Some may even benefit by becoming experts, attracting more business in the future.

However, the outlook is uncertain given the market. Many agents worry about the constant attack landlords may face, and the impact this will have on the buy-to-let market or even the profitability of a rental investment in the long-term. If more landlords sell quality rentals, letting agents will have less work and revenue, while regulation and taxes could hurt tenants with lower rental supply.

While some letting agents may gain by helping landlords adapt to the Renters Reform Bill, there’s a risk that the impact could be negative if many landlords sell in response to the reforms. Support for landlords may be letting agents’ best strategy in this time of change.

Updating landlords on the changes

At present, letting agents have the ability to offer advice to landlords, including helpful tips for new landlords to succeed with the proposed changes on the horizon. However, the scope of their advisory role is expected to expand significantly.

According to the National Residential Landlords Association (NRLA), letting agents have a crucial role in keeping up with the ever-evolving nature of the sector. If and when the Renters Reform Bill becomes law, private residential landlords will be required to demonstrate compliance with the Decent Homes Standard or face fines for non-compliance. Letting agents can even view this as an opportunity to broaden the services they offer and provide enhanced guidance to property owners in light of the changes to come.

The renters reform can present a real opportunity for agents. Landlords may feel overwhelmed and seek professional advice from well-informed letting agents. In today’s market, having a letting agent to provide guidance and support on property types, locations, tenant demographics and tax considerations is invaluable.

However, effectively explaining the intricacies of the significant changes outlined above may prove more challenging in practice. The NRLA has criticised the Renters Reform Bill for its lack of detailed information regarding these major property letting changes, fearing that the proposed ruling may not be robust enough. They believe that more detailed information is needed to ensure the bill functions as intended, though they welcome the Government’s commitment to enabling landlords to regain their properties in such situations.

What can landlords do to prepare?

Landlords will be required to meet new minimum standards when it comes to property maintenance, which means fixing any lingering repairs and issues as soon as possible. In particular, if those repairs pose a health or safety risk, such as damp or gas and electricity issues, they need to be dealt with immediately to improve living conditions for tenants.

Landlords should also review tenancy agreements to ensure the properties in their portfolios meet the new requirements for repairs and ongoing maintenance.

One of the biggest changes landlords can make to prepare for this new legislation is to ensure that they communicate effectively with tenants as to their rights under this new ruling. Seeking advice from letting agents but also professional bodies such as the NRLA will help landlords to comply with these requirements.

The Renters Reform Bill will have a huge impact on the private rental sector, and both letting agents and landlords need to stay up to date with the proposed changes to ensure they’re legally compliant. The changes may be significant but they hopefully will improve the renting experience for everyone and make this sector more stable and secure.

Creating A Low-Maintenance Garden To Boost Your Rental Appeal

It is in your landlord’s interests to make your rental property as appealing as possible to potential tenants, giving it a competitive edge over similar properties in the area. One of the features many people look for is a private garden or patio.

Outdoor space has become a particularly sought-after feature in recent years for obvious reasons. “Since the recent pandemic-induced lockdowns, everyone seems to have rediscovered the immense value of having private outdoor space,” explains one letting agent.

That said, a garden tends to mean ongoing maintenance, which equals additional time and expense for both landlords and tenants. With estate agents also highlighting attractive property features like presentable gardens and patios, what’s the solution? In this article, we take a look at how to create an attractive yet low-maintenance garden that enhances your rental appeal and income without increasing your workload.

What do tenants want?

Whether you have a garden flat or a whole house to let, the type of tenants you wish to attract will determine the kind of outdoor space that appeals to them. Different groups look for various features – here are some typical examples:

Young Professionals:

Families:

  • Larger lawn area for children’s play

  • Sturdy table, chairs and benches

  • Child-friendly plants and trees

  • Secure fencing for safety, privacy and preventing stray balls/toys

Mature tenants:

  • Level pathways for easy access

  • Seating at frequent intervals

  • Flower beds with colour but not requiring much pruning or weeding

  • Natural light for spending time reading or enjoying the garden

Specific characteristics may differ but most tenants seeking private outdoor space want minimal responsibility for the upkeep of their garden. For landlords, this means that choosing a simple, uncluttered design with low-maintenance features will have the widest appeal across tenant types.

What are the key features of a low-maintenance garden?

The trick to creating an easy-care garden is choosing hard landscaping, hardy planting and efficient features that minimise ongoing chores. Start with hard landscaping to provide useful patios, decking and seating areas without a lawn to mow. One recent article recommends mixing materials for added interest. “From concrete, to pavers, stone, tile, brick and gravel, changing materials can create separate zones within your patio. Ideal if you want to use your patio for multiple things such as a dining zone or a reading corner.”

When it comes to planting, opt for low-growing evergreen shrubs, succulents like lavender and hardy perennials over flowering annuals. These plants don’t need annual replacement nor much in the way of watering or pruning once established. Also consider container planting with pots and planters that can be easily moved around and brought under shelter if needed. This also allows you to adjust planting displays for different seasons or tastes.

If there is a lawn, have it mowed and edged regularly by a gardener to keep a tidy appearance. Choose more robust grass types that do not require feeding to stay green and luscious. An artificial lawn is also an increasingly popular option, with no ongoing maintenance needed whatsoever. If you do have a gardener, arrange pruning shrubs and small trees a couple of times a year to avoid any areas becoming unruly while also encouraging healthy growth. This type of general maintenance should be sufficient for most low-key rental gardens.

With these choices, it is possible to design an outdoor space that presents beautifully but doesn’t become a chore to manage or cost a fortune to maintain. Keeping things simple but stylish is the key, with a minimal amount of lawn or planting that needs attention. Most routine maintenance can be handled efficiently by occasional visits from a professional gardener. Your tenants get to enjoy an appealing garden area without the hassle of ongoing responsibilities.

Who is responsible for garden upkeep?

Many landlords find it more convenient to pass the responsibility for garden maintenance onto the tenant, requesting that a minimum amount of work must be carried out to keep the garden looking reasonable. In fact, mowing lawns and keeping on top of weeds are often standard clauses in Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreements.

If garden responsibilities are to be included in the tenancy agreement, be as specific as possible about what exactly your expectations are. Can your tenants grow vegetables or make structural alterations to the garden? What about adding or removing plants? It is advisable to add a clause saying the landlord’s permission must be obtained before any improvements or changes can be made to the garden.

We would also recommend that you include dated photos of the garden in your inventory check-in report, which can then be compared to the condition of the garden at the end of the tenancy. “Landlords should make sure that they are taking a sensible deposit from the tenant before the tenancy begins. This can then be used to recover some of the costs that might occur due to damage or neglect of the garden by the tenant,” explains an insurance expert in the field.

Unfortunately, garden maintenance is often a bone of contention between landlords and tenants, particularly when it comes to the end of the tenancy. The result of any dispute will largely be based on what it says in the tenancy agreement, so make sure you’re covered. If there is no clause about gardening responsibilities, you won’t be able to claim for damages caused by the tenant.

How to present your property’s garden for viewings?

First impressions count when it comes to viewings, so ensure your garden is looking its best to help secure the right tenants. While aimed at low maintenance, a few touches will make an outdoor space more appealing for viewings:

  • Clear any debris from patios, walkways and decking. Mow the lawn, edge pathways, pull up weeds and prune shrubs. A clean, clutter-free garden will show much better.

  • Place a few potted plants, window boxes or hanging baskets near entrance ways to give a friendly welcome and add colour, but without overcrowding the space.

  • Set out a bench, table and chairs to demonstrate how the space could be used. Keep furniture contemporary and in proportion to the size of the garden.

  • Feature good quality photos of the garden in your property listing to generate interest, including images of seating areas, greenery and other garden highlights.

How To Resolve Tenant-Landlord Disputes Without Going To Court

Every landlord needs to be prepared for a deposit dispute because it’s an inevitability that comes with the job. Whether a minor quibble or a larger dispute, knowing how to handle those conversations professionally (and without the need to take the matter to court) will save you a lot of time and money. There are a few ways you can achieve this. Read on for suggestions of how to deal with tenant-landlord disputes quickly and calmly.

Prevention is the best cure

As a landlord, the old phrase ‘prevention is the best cure’ couldn’t be more appropriate. You don’t want to be wasting time constantly handling disputes with tenants, so it’s best to avoid them in the first place so that a dispute is a rarity rather than a common occurrence.

Many arguments over deposits arise because either the tenant or the landlord don’t realise they’ve broken their part of the lease agreement, or they don’t understand their rights. The best way to achieve this is to know the law fully and stay abreast of any changes to housing legislation, so you can make the necessary amends. It results in happier tenants and lowers the chance of you having an empty rental property for too long, as well as reducing the risk of legal issues arising.

Communicate face-to-face

So many problems with tenants can be resolved quickly simply by having a face-to-face conversation with them and ironing out any issues in person. Keep your temper calm and don’t let the conversation get out of hand. There may well be an honest solution to the problem which both parties are blowing out of proportion, and trying to resolve it over text or email only makes the likelihood of that happening higher. Another way to keep tensions at bay is to meet in a neutral environment, so everyone feels safe and able to say their piece.

Contact a mediator

If you’ve met and tried to discuss the problem to no avail, a professional mediator can help you make progress and find a solution that works for you both. In a mediation, both parties come together with an impartial mediator to reach an agreement and resolve the dispute.

The mediator will be trained to deal with these types of situations so they’ll be able to act as a neutral but experienced party. They don’t assist with working out the issue directly. Instead, mediators guide the parties to negotiation in a constructive way. Mediation isn’t as formal or expensive as the litigation process so it works well for tenants who are seeking an informal solution and landlords looking to save on costs.

Keep detailed records

Having detailed records to hand makes it much easier to resolve disputes because you’ll have evidence of what’s been agreed and what has occurred since. From correspondence with the tenant regarding the issue at hand, to photographic evidence of the property before they moved in and its current state, a paper trail makes it much easier to fall back on hard facts when the time comes. And, if you need to escalate the issue to a legal team, records will be very helpful to show that it’s not just a case of your word against your tenants.

If you handle multiple rental properties, you should keep a file for each one, whether paper or digital, so you can keep your property management records organised and up to date. It can deter a tenant from taking the matter to court themselves if they know that you have evidence to back up your claims and disprove theirs.

Hire a specialist solicitor

If the problem has escalated and you haven’t been able to informally handle it, then the next step is to hire a specialist solicitor who has experience of landlord and tenancy law and will be able to advise you on the best course of action. Contact from a solicitor can often dissuade a tenant from taking the matter further and may help you both reach a fair agreement outside of court.

A specialist solicitor will be able to advise you on your legal rights, and those of the tenant, as well as the likelihood of you getting the result you’re looking for. It’s certainly an expense that you don’t want to pay for, but it can be a beneficial step to take if court is looking likely.

Put it in writing

Putting your complaints, or having the tenant put their issues down, in writing formally dictates any misgivings either party has about the property that’s being let. It’s important when you do this to be as specific and accurate as possible, from the occurrences being disagreed upon to the dates the dispute spans. It’s also important to take into account any previous correspondence.

The reason for doing this and having a record of the issue is that if you aren’t able to handle it out of court, having a document in place that outlines exactly what the issues are will come in handy when resolving it with a legal team. It also ensures you won’t forget any details further down the line, as court proceedings can take some time.

Court involvement as a last resort

Where possible, both parties should avoid taking the matter to court, as it’s time-consuming and incredibly costly. But sometimes it’s the only way to reach a decision. Just know that if the matter reaches the courts, you could be in for a long wait and a lot of legal expenses to have the matter settled, so it’s not a decision to take lightly.

The housing industry has been on a rollercoaster of activity in the last few years and it’s led many people to invest in rental properties. But it’s vital that you understand the issues that can arise with a buy-to-let and know how to mitigate them as much as possible, to save yourself time, money and the need to find new tenants. The smoother you can make your relationship with tenants, the better it is for you and them, so it’s worth making clear who is responsible for what and having thorough records in place to reduce the risk of a dispute.

Sustainable Property Maintenance Jobs Agents Shouldn’t Ignore

Property maintenance doesn’t just improve the aesthetic quality of a home, it also helps to retain value, or even significantly increase it. Regular maintenance could increase a home’s value by at least 1% per year while neglecting it can cause properties to depreciate.

Any home is a valuable asset and when it comes to selling, those in better condition understandably tend to fetch a higher price. That’s why it’s essential to carry out regular maintenance on a property or asset, yet some remedial projects are easier to work on than others.

Running the vacuum cleaner around and trimming the hedges is one thing, but grabbing a ladder or some heavy-duty equipment isn’t something most people can do on a whim. Here are our essential green property maintenance tasks that agents shouldn’t ignore when talking to their clients.

Upgrading insulation

Insulation is essential all year, not just in the winter. Effective insulation can help to regulate temperature during the summer months and retain heat when the chill hits. Insulation materials come in many forms and if you are looking for sustainable materials we recommend natural wool, cork, hemp or cellulose.

Using natural materials to insulate a property rather than synthetic or man-made ones does mean that they have a relatively limited lifespan, however. For example, cellulose insulation is typically good for 20 to 30 years but can begin to degrade by the 15-year mark.

Upgrading a property’s insulation provides an energy efficiency boost and makes it more sustainable as fewer resources are required to maintain a comfortable temperature. From cavity walls to the roof and floors, there are plenty of opportunities to upgrade the insulation in a home to improve energy efficiency. And, with the cost of living crisis pinching wallets, being energy efficient is more important than ever.

Gutter cleaning

Perhaps one of the most common household maintenance tasks that gets forgotten or neglected is cleaning out the guttering. They can get clogged with leaves and debris that blows in throughout the year and this causes a blockage.

It is a relatively simple fix but often requires the assistance of a long ladder or a high-level platform to give you the access you require. Without the gutters diverting any rainwater away from the home you are putting your property at risk of water damage.

That water can pool in places which causes leaks that seep into the roof as well as the frames and fascia of a property. If left unattended this water can lead to mould, rot and mildew which risks your tenants’ health and can cost thousands to repair.

General roof surveys and maintenance jobs

The roof is often a property’s first level of protection against the elements, be that the wind, rain or even the sun. But, unlike other areas of a property, it’s difficult to check on the status of the roof due to how high it is.

You just can’t see the roof well enough from the ground so it’s important to gain a better perspective, particularly following a heavy downpour or strong storm. High-access equipment hire allows you to inspect any roof damage from a better vantage point.

Having the right high-level equipment allows for other maintenance tasks to be completed, such as:

  • replacing any broken or missing roof tiles

  • cleaning the outside of windows

  • repointing the chimney breast

  • repairing the roof and gutterings

  • painting elevations and chimney pots, and

  • inspecting solar panels (if the property benefits from having them installed).

Having a safe platform in place to make these comprehensive maintenance checks can also help you to oversee whether a property’s renewable energy sources are running effectively.

Creative and sustainable landscaping

Landscaping and gardening is a job that many people put off but once completed can transform how a home looks and feels. Not only will the outdoor space be easier on the eye, but it can also be more welcoming to residents’ guests and encourage local wildlife to flourish if you take an eco approach.

Many people are opting to include a wild zone in their outdoor space to promote any wildlife to move in, and potential tenants looking for outdoor space may wish for an eco-friendly environment outside their rental home. Ideas include ponds, allowing a patch of grass to grow wild and uncut and composting facilities. It’s important to reclaim as many materials as possible for any landscaping project to help make it as environmentally friendly as possible.

Also try to consider using plants that are native to your area. For example, bell heather is prominent in Kent and adding some to your wild garden will help boost the numbers of bees, moths and butterflies that thrive on it.

Install rainwater collectors

Countries like the UK experience plenty of rainfall throughout the year, even when it’s summer and the sun is meant to be shining. Rainwater harvesting allows homes to conserve water by collecting it throughout the year and using it for common household chores. For instance, harvested rainwater is ideal for flushing toilets, washing cars or watering flowers during hot and dry spells.

This allows residents to cut down on their water consumption, which is not only good for the planet but also helps reduce water bills. Modern toilets use as much as five litres per flush, while older models made before 2001 use up to 10 litres per flush. Depending on how much space you are working with, rainwater collection barrels can collect as much as 210 litres.

Electric car charging point

Perhaps one of the most important upgrades property management companies can make to a modern home concerns transport. Electric cars are very much the future of the automotive industry and with the sale of new petrol and diesel cars to end by 2030, that future is rapidly approaching.

Requiring a qualified electrician, electric car chargers are an important upgrade due to the prominence of electric vehicles on our roads. Zero emissions cars continue to grow in popularity and an electric car charger at home is beginning to be a must-have.

With homes that have an electric car charging point installed selling for 30% more than those that don’t, it is a significant consideration to make. Electric car chargers can cost up to £1,000 to install but considering the value they add to a home, and the convenience they provide, they are a worthwhile and sustainable home upgrade.

How Landlords Can Tackle Rental Reforms and Energy Changes

The government’s plans for the rental market will see some big changes in the coming years. In fact, landlords have started to make their homes more energy-efficient. Rental properties must already have an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) rating of band E or better.

About our guest blogger:
Dakota Murphey has experience in property management with her portfolio of properties expanding in the South of England. Her passion for renovation and home improvement projects is shared through her writing to help educate and inspire others.

However, the government wishes for rental properties to be better insulated and rated in band C by 2026 for all new tenancies. Existing tenancies have until 2028 but for landlords with a large property portfolio, that means beginning to consider changes now.

Data from March 2021 shows that 63% of existing dwellings have an energy efficiency rating of D or worse. This represents a considerable chunk of the property market and presents a challenge to landlords to improve their ratings. It may even see some landlords step away from the rentals market as the costs involved to upgrade their ratings no longer make it financially viable.

Proposed rental reforms plan to introduce lifetime deposits for tenants and to ban Section 21 evictions. The introduction of this bill has been delayed due to the pandemic but it is expected to be published in 2022. So, what can landlords do to tackle these proposed changes and make their properties more compliant?

Making homes more energy efficient

Landlords have an extra year to ensure their new-let properties achieve band C after it was extended from 2025 to 2026. That still requires plenty of work to be done to upgrade the efficiency of these homes. And, the 2028 deadline date for existing lettings looms large. A fifth of landlords have already improved their energy ratings and here are some ways to improve yours.

Bolstering insulation

One of the easiest ways to make your property more energy-efficient is to improve insulation. Poorly insulated windows, walls, doors and roofs cause the largest amount of heat loss in the home. Windows, doors and walls contribute to approximately 35% of heat loss, while the roof is estimated to lose a further 25% of generated heat.

Heat escaping from poorly insulated homes is incredibly inefficient as it costs so much more to keep heating a room. Rather, retaining the generated heat for longer means tenants can lower their heating bills and therefore their costs of living.

With the costs of living beginning to spiral to the point of unaffordability for many, it’s important landlords make their homes efficient for their tenants. Ways to upgrade your insulation include replacing windows and doors, and taking the time to insulate your roof.

Regular servicing of boilers

Energy efficiency comes in many forms but one of the best ways to improve your property’s rating is through regular servicing of your boiler. If your property’s boiler is over 10 years old then it’s worth looking into its efficiency. This might mean replacing the entire boiler or just installing newer parts to ensure it is running smoothly. The same applies to homes that use oil tanks for heating.

“Annual boiler services remove sludge deposits that can clog your system, increasing heating costs and reducing heating efficiency”, says oil tank experts, SG Tanks. “If your boiler is well past its best, investing in a modern and better model is the way to go. Modern boilers are more energy-efficient and fail less often than old ones”.

Look at your lighting

One of the aspects of a property that EPC surveys check is the lighting. An assessor looks at the number of fixed light fittings plus how many low energy light bulbs are fitted. Low energy lightbulbs include CFT and LEDs.

“The average LED lasts 50,000 operating hours to 100,000 operating hours or more”’ says LED light installation company Stouch Lighting. “That is 2-4 times as long as most fluorescent, metal halide, and even sodium vapour lights”.

LED light bulbs, for instance, require just 3.3 watts to produce 400 lumens which is the equivalent of a 50-watt incandescent bulb. To put the costs into perspective, that 50-watt incandescent bulb, running at 8 hours a day, would cost £21.90 to run for a year if you are charged 15p per kWh.

The LED bulb, by comparison, costs just £1.45 per year for the same usage and rate. Now, consider how many bulbs are in your property and do the maths on the savings tenants could make on their yearly energy bills.

Preparing for the proposed rental reforms

While there are things we can do to improve how energy-efficient rental properties are, it’s a tougher task to prepare yourself for the incoming rental reforms. Although the rental reform bill hasn’t come into effect yet, one of the biggest challenges to come from it will be the proposed abolishing of Section 21. This section allows landlords to end rolling tenancies with two months notice without giving a reason.

Legally evicting tenants will become much more difficult so it’s important for landlords to be satisfied with the people living in their properties. This might mean introducing a stricter background check process that gives you a better indication of who is moving in.

Another proposed change to the rental industry is the removal of security deposits for tenants. Instead, a ‘lifetime deposit’ will be introduced that is supposed to stay with the tenant, wherever they move to. This could make it harder to withhold a security deposit and require better evidence of the tenant doing something against their terms of tenancy.

Speculation surrounding the Renter’s Reform Bill includes proposals for an independent industry regulator or a national landlord database. Both would require the actions of landlords to be better documented.

Further rental reform proposals

The government is looking to give renters more of what they want and further proposals include:

  • Making it easier to rent with pets

  • Better enforcement on criminal landlords

  • Making open-ended tenancies the norm

Landlords may no longer have the peace of mind of knowing that their tenant is going to occupy their property for a certain period if open-ended tenancies become the norm. That might mean putting procedures in place to replace tenants unexpectedly. This could be done by associating yourself with an agency or creating a bigger financial buffer to cope with the loss of income.

Renters looking for a property that allows pets have struggled in the past and the new proposals would seek to change that. It is implied that landlords will have to object to pet requests in writing and this can only be rejected if there is a ‘good reason’. An example of a ‘good reason’ would be if the property is too small and the pet’s introduction would be impractical.

Households bought 3.2 million pets during lockdown, creating a huge rise in demand for pet-friendly living. It’s something to prepare for in advance by introducing more durable flooring, enclosed gardens and less exposed electrical cables into your properties.