Preparing The Property
A good relationship with Tenants is the key to a smooth-running tenancy. As Property Managers, this relationship is our job. It’s important that the Tenants feel comfortable in their accommodation, and that they get value for money.
A well-presented, maintained, and decorated property can help you achieve this, and can justify a higher rental price. Tenants are also more likely to treat your property with greater respect.
Furnishings
Your property can be let fully furnished, part furnished or unfurnished. Which of these is appropriate will depend on the type of property and local market conditions. We are happy to provide advice on whether or not to furnish, and to what extent.
At a minimum, you need to provide decent quality carpets, curtains and light fittings. Remember that there will be wear-and-tear on the property and any items provided.
General Condition
Electricity, gas, plumbing, waste, central heating and hot water systems must be safe and in good working order. Interior decorations should be in good condition and preferably plain, light and neutral.
Repairs and maintenance are at the Landlords expense unless misuse can be established.
Personal Items
Personal possessions including ornaments, pictures and books should be removed from the premises, especially items of real or sentimental value. Some items may be boxed, sealed and stored in the loft at the owner’s risk. All cupboards and shelf space should be left clear for the Tenant’s use.
Cleaning
Before a tenancy begins, the property must be in a thoroughly clean condition. At the end of each tenancy, it is the Tenants’ responsibility to leave the property in a similar condition. Where they fail to do so, cleaning is arranged at their expense.
Gardens
Gardens should be left neat, tidy and rubbish free, with any lawns cut. We can arrange garden maintenance for you as required.
Information For The Tenant
It is helpful if you leave instructional information for the Tenant (example: how to operate the central heating, hot water system, washing machine and alarm, and what day the waste is collected).
Keys
You should provide one set of keys for each Tenant. Our office will arrange to have duplicates cut as required.
Other Considerations
Mortgage
If your property is mortgaged, you should obtain your mortgagee’s written consent to the letting. They may require additional clauses in the tenancy agreement of which you must inform us.
Leaseholds
If you are a leaseholder, you should check the terms of your lease, and obtain any necessary written consent before letting.
Insurance
You should ensure that you are suitably covered for letting under both your buildings and contents insurance. Failure to inform your insurers may invalidate your policies.
Bills And Regular Outgoings
We recommend that you arrange for regular outgoings e.g. service charges, maintenance contracts etc. to be paid by standing order or direct debit. However, by prior written agreement we may make payment of certain bills on your behalf, provided such bills are received in your name at our office, and that sufficient funds are held to your credit.
B.E.R (Building Energy Rating) (B.E.R.s)
Since 1st January 2009 landlords in Ireland offering property for rent are required by law to hold a B.E.R. Certificate for their property and provide prospective tenants with a copy. We can arrange an B.E.R inspection for our landlord clients upon request.
Utility Accounts
We will arrange for the transfer of utility accounts to the Tenant. Meter readings will be taken, allowing your closing gas and electricity accounts to be drawn up.
Mortgage
If your property is mortgaged, you should obtain your mortgagee’s written consent to the letting. They may require additional clauses in the tenancy agreement of which you must inform us.
We hope that you find the above information useful. If there are any aspects of which you are unsure, please ask us. We look forward to being of assistance to you in the letting and management of your property.
Our Contact details:
Email: info@maherproperty.ie
Phone: 0599143100
