Landlord Guide — Residential Lettings & Property Management
Welcome
Thank you for choosing Austin Property Services. With over 30 years of Estate Agency & Lettings experience, our aim is simple: to provide a reliable, compliant, and stress-free service that protects your investment and supports long-term, successful tenancies.
We are UKALA registered, members of The Property Ombudsman, qualified to NFOPP Level 3, and provide Client Money Protection through UKALA — giving you complete confidence in our standards and processes.
1. Our Lettings Services
Fully Managed Service
Our most comprehensive option, designed for landlords who want complete peace of mind.
Included:
- Professional photography & marketing
- Advertising on major portals
- Accompanied viewings
- Full tenant referencing
- Right to Rent checks
- Assured Periodic Tenancy Agreement
- Inventory & Schedule of Condition
- Deposit collection & registration (TDS)
- Rent collection & monthly statements
- Initial inspection + quarterly photographic inspections
- Maintenance coordination with trusted contractors
- No contractor markups
- Utility switching
- Legal compliance monitoring
- End-of-tenancy management & deposit support
Tenant Find Only
Ideal for landlords who prefer to manage the tenancy themselves.
Included:
- Photography
- Portal advertising
- Accompanied viewings
- Full referencing
- Right to Rent checks
- Tenancy Agreement
- Deposit collection & transfer
- Optional inventory service
2. Legal Requirements for Landlords
You must ensure the property is safe, compliant, and fit for habitation. This includes:
- Valid EPC (E or above)
- Gas Safety Certificate (annual)
- Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) (every 5 years, or change of tenancy)
- Smoke & carbon monoxide alarms
- Compliance with the Renters' Rights Act 2025
- Decent Homes Standard
- Right to Rent legislation
- Any required local authority licensing
We will guide you through all requirements and arrange certificates where needed.
3. Preparing Your Property for Letting
A well-presented property attracts better tenants and reduces void periods.
Checklist:
- Clean throughout
- Gardens tidy (if applicable)
- All appliances working
- Fresh décor where needed
- Carpets professionally cleaned if required
- All keys available (including window keys, fobs, outbuildings)
- Manuals left for appliances
4. Tenant Referencing & Selection
We carry out thorough checks including:
- Employment & income verification
- Credit history
- Previous landlord references
- Right to Rent checks
Only tenants who meet affordability and suitability criteria will be recommended.
5. Rent Collection & Statements
Rent is collected promptly and transferred to you with a clear monthly statement. Any contractor invoices are passed on at net cost — no markups.
6. Inspections & Maintenance
- Initial inspection after one month
- Tri-annual photographic inspections
- Trusted local contractors
- No markup on contractor invoices
- Approval required for works over £500 (except emergencies)
7. End of Tenancy
We arrange:
- Check-out inspection
- Schedule of Condition
- Deposit return or adjudication
- Utility switching
- Handover of keys and documentation
8. Fees
A full breakdown of fees is available on our website and in your management agreement.
9. Communication & Support
You will have a dedicated point of contact who knows your property and tenancy inside out. We provide:
- Monthly statements
- Inspection reports
- Prompt updates on maintenance
- Clear communication throughout the tenancy
10. Contact Us
Austin Property Services
Tel: 01305 772000
Email:
Website: www.austinpropertyservices.co.uk
