scottish property news
 

Want to be a good landlord?

 © Evening Times
Originally published: 05.06.2007

The stereotype of a Rigsby-style landlord no longer applies, thankfully, as today’s landlords are more likely to go the extra mile to ensure tenants are happy.

There are a few simple ideas which can go towards making you into a model landlord and shaking off the seedy image created by Leonard Rossiter in the classic sitcom Rising Damp.

First, before even buying a property, check that repairs will be easy to access and make sure you carry out all the appropriate safety checks on gas equipment, including central heating, and any electrical equipment left in the house.

You also have a duty to provide a property in a state of good repair and good decoration. Some tenants will ignore minor problems, but a small water leak can soon be the cause of major damage if not treated. Always show tenants where the stop cock is and how to turn the gas off.

Supplying them with a list of emergency contact numbers such as plumbers, electricians, gas engineers and so on, will help them to deal with a problem quickly.

If your property is managed then your agent should regularly check the building, but if you are managing it yourself it’s important to make regular visits to check for leaking pipes, damp, flaking wallpaper, and blown fuses – nipping a problem in the bud could stop it growing into a major disaster. Also remember that smoke detectors have to be checked every year.

Remember that your tenant has the right to total privacy, so make sure that you give adequate notice when you want to visit the property. Jennifer Allan, letting executive with Strathclyde Homes Residential Lettings, also advises: “Provide a copy or access to the tenancy agreement and a copy of the full inventory, stating the condition of fixtures and fittings agreed by the tenant.

“Make yourself readily available or contactable. And basically, treat your tenant as you would like to be treated yourself!” Ian Beard, of Fineholm Letting, agrees. “A landlord must realise that renting property is a business and it may not always be profitable every month,” he says.

“Money needs put back into the property in order to achieve maximum rental. There is no point in cutting corners in terms of furnishings, decor, white goods and maintenance.”

He adds: “A good landlord will understand the needs of the tenant and be able to see it from his or her point of view. Do not expect a tenant to accept any less than would be acceptable to the landlord. A landlord who is easily contactable and who delivers what he says is ideal.”