Fulham has become one of South West London’s most popular areas for buyers and renters alike. With fantastic pubs, shopping and schools on offer, many young professionals and families are searching for properties for sale and rent in the area.

Looking for help managing your rental properties in the Fulham area? Our guide sets out some of the most trusted letting agents in Fulham and aims to help you find the services you’re looking for, right on your doorstep.

Whether you’re looking for property management support or help attracting the right tenants, the following London letting agents are on hand to help…

 

Winkworth Fulham & Parsons Green Estate Agents

Winkworth Fulham and Parsons Green estate agency has been active in Parsons green for 34 years and has seen first hand the rise in demand for property in the area. Their excellent knowledge of the local property market, combined with a strong team of property professionals makes them a highly recommended agency in the area.

Georgia Nicoll heads up the lettings team and is skilled at placing the best tenants in the right properties. The 4.7 Google rating attests to the excellent services they provide to customers.

Contact Information

40 New Kings Road, Fulham, Greater London, SW6 4ST
+44 (0) 20 7731 3388
[email protected]

 

John D Wood & Co Estate Agents Fulham Broadway

Located conveniently on the corner of Fulham road and North End Road, the Fulham office of John D Wood & Co offers sales and letting services to the surrounding area.

The lettings team provide tailored services to landlords and property professionals, aided by expert legal teams to help protect your investment. Satisfied clients attest to the teams’ efficiency, reliability and flexibility.

Contact Information

506 Fulham Rd, Fulham, London SW6 5NJ
020 3151 4134

 

Strutt & Parker Fulham

If you’re a London landlord or property professional looking for help with Fulham properties, Strutt & Parker are dedicated to helping match both corporate and private tenants with outstanding properties. Solid market knowledge, seamless property management services and flexible options make this letting agency a popular choice in the area.

Their impressive 4.9 star Google rating comes from the team’s professionalism and excellent communication skills.

Contact Information

701 Fulham Road, London, SW6 5UL
+44 20 7731 7100

 

KFH (Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward) Fulham

From the picturesque Eel Brook Common to the plentiful green spaces of Moore park and South Park, the team at KFH Fulham are very much clued up on Fulham’s offerings.

This estate and lettings agent offer everything from residential and commercial lettings, to portfolio management. Their dedication to clients is reflected in the 5 star Google review rating as customers describe their services as honest, helpful and attentive.

Contact Information

825-827 Fulham Road, Fulham, SW6 5HG
[email protected]
020 3993 4671

 

Chestertons Fulham Road

Chestertons Estate Agents have three offices in Fulham and their lettings team is run by Graham Jennings who has been working at the firm since 2009.

Reviews describe the team as having fantastic knowledge of the area and local property market.

Contact Information

654 Fulham Road, Fulham London SW6 5RU
[email protected]
+44 (0)20 7384 9899

 

 

Knight Frank Fulham Estate Agents

According to lettings manager Chiara Thomas, Knight Frank Fulham have seen a 72% increase in the number of tenancies starting via their corporate relocation service year on year.

From marketing, to finding reliable tenants and collecting rent, this agency is experienced at providing essential services for landlords in the area. With a wide network of partners and experts, Knight Frank are well placed to help landlords protect their investment.

Contact Information

203 New Kings Road, Fulham, SW6 4SR

 

 

Hamptons International Estate Agents Parsons Green and Fulham

Landlords and tenants alike praise Hamptons Parsons Green and Fulham for their attentive customer service and dedication to going above and beyond for their clients.

The Fulham office of Hamptons has been running successfully for 25 years, covering the postcodes SW6, W6 and W14. The international agency has wide exposure on property portals such as Zoopla and Rightmove and the team is confident they can get you the best rental price for your property.

Contact Information

193, New Kings Road, Fulham, London, SW6 4SS
020 3151 4176

 

Carter Jonas Parsons Green

Carter Jonas Parsons Green provides a wide array of services, including; property valuations, vacant property management and buy-to-let advice.

The team pride themselves on their transparency, customer satisfaction and 24/7 availability.

Contact Information

783 Fulham Rd, Fulham, London SW6 5HD
020 7751 8898

 

Douglas & Gordon Fulham

The Douglas and Gordon Fulham office is well known for it’s high quality services and customer service, with the team being described as ‘diligent’, ‘approachable’ and ‘refreshing’.

The team are experts in both long term and short term lets and offer a wide range of professional services for landlords.

Contact Information

656 Fulham Rd, Fulham, London SW6 5RX
020 3918 3699
[email protected]

 

Savills Fulham

Savills have been operating in the property industry for many years, and the Fulham branch has earned a reputation for seamless efficiency. The agency deals with some of the most prestigious properties for sale and let in the area and has a detailed understanding of renters’ needs.

The team ensures that their clients are at the heart of their services and are available at all times of day.

Contact Information

191 New King’s Rd, Fulham, London SW6 4SW
020 7731 9400

 

No Letting Go Fulham

Fulham is a hugely popular area of central London, thanks to its great transport links, quality schools and attractive properties, making it a great location for prospective landlords to invest. If you’re looking for property inventory services in London, we can help.

The No Letting Go Fulham branch is run by Yosha Hussain, an experienced inventory and property reporting specialist, with great local knowledge.

Available services include:

  • Detailed inventory reports
  • Digisign
  • Property visits
  • 360 virtual photography
  • Property appraisals
  • And much more….

Find our full list of property inventory services here to maximise returns and protect your investment.

This year marks the biggest ARLA conference to date, as the 25th event in the conference’s history is taking place in London on the 24th of March.

As one of the most important property events in the calendar of professionals working in the private rented sector, we’re excited to be there flying the flag for our network of property inventory experts.

Find out what the event has to offer…

 

What is the ARLA Propertymark Conference and Exhibition?

The ARLA Propertymark conference is an annual event dedicated to the private rental sector. In 2019, attendees reached the 1000 mark and this year is set to be even bigger.

This year’s keynote speakers include:

  • Mary Portas, High street retail expert
  • Dido Harding, Digital business leader
  • David Cox, ARLA Propertymark chief executive
  • Julian Worricker, Conference moderator and BBC broadcaster

In addition to insightful talks and presentations, there is a full agenda of debates, property industry roundups, exhibitions and the chance to network with fellow professionals.

 

When is the ARLA Propertymark Conference Taking Place?

The ARLA conference 2020 is taking place in London’s Excel on the 24th March.

 

Why attend ARLA Propertymark Conference?

If you’re an estate agent, letting agent or supplier wishing to network, this event provides an essential opportunity to network with the best in the business.

The conference is the place to catch up on the latest innovations in the sector, debate important industry issues and hear from some of the leading figures in lettings.

The event also provides the opportunity to explore new products and services that could help your business thrive.

 

No Letting Go at the ARLA Conference

As the exhibition celebrates 25 years, you’ll find us at stand D13 where we’ll be sharing our franchise offering and specialised services.

Find out about our:

  • Property inventory services to landlords, letting agents and property professionals
  • Property visits
  • Property conditions reports
  • Check in/check out services
  • Estate and block management audits
  • Our cutting-edge property technology and software
  • Becoming a franchisee
  • And lots more…

 

Other ARLA Events to Watch Out For

ARLA Propertymark put on several regional and national events throughout the UK, including:

  • Northern Ireland National Conference
  • Scottish National Conference
  • South Coast
  • South West
  • Welsh National Conference
  • East Anglia
  • South-East
  • North West
  • Midlands

Other annual events include the NAEA Propertymark National Conference which is dedicated to estate agents.

 

Tailored Property Inventory Services

Need some help streamlining your property business? We’re the UK’s largest provider of inventory management services with over 65 offices across the UK.

Spanning residential and commercial property, our extensive list of services are all designed with you, the client in mind.

Get in touch today or start browsing our full list of property inventory services.

London Landlord Deposit Disputes Highest In the UK
When it comes to the end of a tenancy and the return of the tenant deposit, there are plenty of things that can go wrong, wherever your property is based.

However, according to a recent report, London landlord deposit disputes appear to be the highest in the UK.

This blog delves deeper into the reasons behind landlord/tenant disputes in London and what can be done to avoid these disagreements altogether.

 

London Deposit Disputes

According to Property Wire, London is home to the highest cases of rental disputes between landlords and tenants.

This data comes from Ome, a deposit replacement membership scheme, who found that a sizable 37% of all rental disagreement cases last year came from the UK’s capital. London was followed by the South East with 16% of cases and the North West coming in at 11%.

Why London? It could be partly due to the fact that rental prices are far higher, demanding hefty deposits. The greater the sum being argued over, the more likely both parties will want a return on their investment.

 

Common Causes of Deposit Disputes

The data showed that the number one reason for deposit disputes across the majority of the UK, including London, was poor communication. Whereas, in the South East, the most common cause was cleanliness at check out.

Other common reasons for disputes include;

  • Damage to property
  • Cleanliness
  • Missed payments
  • Inventory discrepancies

 

Landlord Deposit Dispute: Wear and Tear

What constitutes fair wear and tear is an issue that often occurs at the end of the tenancy, as the definition can vary from person to person. Our guide on fair wear and tear sets out what is considered to be normal and unavoidable wear and tear and how to help tenants prevent further damage.

 

Landlord Deposit Dispute: Cleaning

Cleanliness at check-out was another common issue when it came to rental deposit disputes last year. This can be avoided through regular property inspections and investing in a pre-check out service.

 

How to Avoid Deposit Disputes

If you’re a landlord or letting agent in London, minimising the chance of disputes will most likely save you time and money in the long term (not to mention stress!)

Here are some of the ways you can avoid a dispute in the first place;

 

Tenancy Deposit Protection

Ensure the deposit is protected in a tenancy deposit scheme as this is a legal requirement. Failure to do so could lead to your tenant demanding a full return of their deposit or more.

 

Tenancy Deposit Return Time Limit

At the end of a tenancy, landlords must return the deposit within 10 days after any deposit deductions have been agreed.

 

Invest in a Professional Inventory Service

One of the most important steps you can take to avoid deposit disputes is by starting the tenancy right with a thorough and professional inventory.

A professional inventory report will set out the condition of the property and its contents at check-in, highlighting any changes at the end of the tenancy. This vital document provides evidence to support you if you need to deduct from the deposit. For example, if there is damage to the property or furnishings beyond normal wear and tear or if there are items missing from the final inventory.

An inventory report signed by the tenant is your best protection if your tenant decides to raise a dispute over deposit deductions. Without it, you are very unlikely to recover the funds for maintenance and repair.

 

Consider a Pre-Check Out Service

Another way to avoid a dispute is to provide tenants with a pre-check out service at the end of their tenancy. As part of this service, a property clerk will visit the property and provide advice to tenants on what maintenance needs to be undertaken in order to have their full deposit returned.

The benefits of a pre-check out service include smoother transitions between tenants, less maintenance needed and therefore less chance of deposit disputes.

 

Regular Property Inspections

Organising regular property inspections to your rental helps to minimise the chance of disputes as experienced clerks can check that the property is being properly maintained by tenants and reduce the chance of damage at check-out.

 

Positive Communications

It may sound obvious, but this is a common problem amongst landlords / letting agents and tenants, particularly in London. A breakdown in communication or negative feedback can lead to a lack of trust and a greater chance of deposit disputes when you reach the end of the tenancy agreement.

To avoid this, it’s best to give a positive first impression to tenants and maintain regular and honest lines of communication.

 

Landlord Deposit Dispute Advice

If issues can’t be solved through direct and honest communications, it may be worth seeking the advice of a dispute resolution service to resolve the issue. An impartial adjudicator will be able to assess the dispute and hopefully come to an agreement that is acceptable to both sides.

If it comes to this, having a detailed inventory report is vital. At No Letting Go, we provide professional inventory reports to landlords, letting agents and property businesses throughout the UK. With expert local branches around the country and the latest property technology at our disposal, we’re experienced at helping property professionals protect their investment.

Find your local London property inventory service here.

Don’t let a deposit dispute affect your business, explore our property inventory service today.

Do you own or manage rental property in Battersea, London? If so, the right letting agent can help you maximise rental income, find the right tenants and save you time for the more important tasks.

We’ve analysed customer reviews to compile a thorough list of the best Battersea letting agents that can help you manage your property portfolio and handle day-to-day tenant requests.

Find professional and reliable letting agencies in London and the Battersea area…

 

Chestertons Battersea & Clapham

With an impressive 4.8 Google review from satisfied clients, the Battersea office of Chesterton’s lettings team is managed by Gary Noone. Priding himself on his excellent customer service, Gary has been working in the industry since 2001 and brings a youthful energy to his work.

Overseas landlords highly recommend the agency for their responsive communication and expert advice.

Contact Information

+44 (0)20 7298 5630
[email protected]
6 Battersea Rise, Clapham London SW11 1ED

 

Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward Battersea

From family homes to apartments for young professionals, the Battersea branch of KFH is experienced at letting a wide range of properties in the area.

Directed by Kiera Sapiets, the lettings team have been praised for their helpful, professional and friendly outlook.

From property management to short term lets, this office in South West London is a reliable choice for busy landlords.

Contact Information

020 8131 4326
[email protected]
Battersea Lettings108 Northcote Road, Battersea, SW11 6QP

 

Foxtons Battersea Estate Agents

Foxtons Battersea letting agents specialise in a wide range of services, from properties for sale, properties to rent and property management and valuations.

Foxton’s tenant finding service covers long term, short term and managed lets, taking the pressure off you to find the perfect tenant for your property. They also offer a digital assistant for landlords featuring 24/7 support, real time notifications and financial updates. The perfect way to streamline tasks and cut down on admin.

Contact Information

020 7801 1111
[email protected]
168 Lavender Hill, Battersea, SW11 5TG

 

Knight Frank Battersea and Riverside Estate Agents

Knight Frank Battersea and Riverside Estate Agents manage some of the most sought-after properties for rent in Battersea, located in the Nine Elms SW8 regeneration zone.

With exceptional local knowledge and a wide network, this letting agent is well practiced at placing tenants and providing seamless services. The 4.9 Google rating attests to the effort the team at Battersea put into their customer service when dealing with landlords and tenants alike.

Contact Details

+4420 3642 9711
Unit C1 Vista, 346 Queenstown Road, SW11 8BY

 

Haart Letting Agents Battersea

As part of one of the largest independent letting agents in the UK, Haart Letting Agents Battersea have a wealth of experience in the industry.

Branch manager Ollie Seymour provides reliable local knowledge, alongside a large database of potential tenants. Described as ‘attentive’ without being ‘obtrusive’, Ollie has helped many new and experienced landlords let properties in the area.

Contact Information

020 7223 0637
[email protected]
255 Lavender Hill, Battersea, London, SW11 1JD

 

Gordon & Co Estate Agents in Battersea

Since 2008, Gordon & Co Estate Agents in Battersea have been letting properties and providing essential property management services in Battersea and Clapham.

This registered office covers the following postcodes; SW2, SW4, SW6, SW8, SW9, SW11, SW12, SW15, SW17, SW18, SW19.

Reviews describe the team as ‘kind’, ‘informative’ and praise them for going above and beyond for their clients.

Contact Information

020 7223 3100
200, Lavender Hill, London, SW11 1JA

 

Douglas & Gordon Battersea

From the best schools in the area to green spaces and safety, the team at Douglas & Gordon Battersea understand the requirements of families looking to rent in the area.

Covering property promotion to rental agreements, the letting’s team at Douglas & Gordon are on hand for every step of the lettings process.

Lettings manager Emma Seckel is part of a small and experienced team who are always happy to help.

Contact Information

020 7924 2002
[email protected]
128 Northcote Road, London, SW11 6QZ

 

Aspire Estate Agents Battersea

Covering properties from Putney bridge to London bridge, Aspire Estate Agency Battersea is an independent company that has been working with property in London for many years.

Combining the latest in property technology with original marketing strategies, the team here are confident they can let your property quickly. Their lettings department is registered with ARLA and the team is big on integrity and honesty.

Contact Information

020 7801 3400
[email protected]
242 Battersea Bridge Road, London, SW11 3AA

 

John D Wood & Co Estate Agents Battersea

Located centrally on Battersea park road, John D Wood & Co Estate Agents’ specialised lettings team has been operating in the UK for over 145 years.

This long running company offers bespoke marketing strategies, a flexible array of services for landlords as well as excellent corporate and relocation services.

Contact Information

501, Battersea Park Road, Battersea, London, SW11 4LW
[email protected]
020 3369 4316

 

Hamptons International Estate Agents Battersea and Wandsworth

With an impressive 5-star Google review rating, Hamptons International Battersea and Wandsworth are often praised for their efficiency in finding tenants and for taking the hassle out of the lettings process.

Armed with award winning marketing, a strong reputation and wide exposure on popular property portals, the team at Hamptons Battersea know how to make life easier for busy landlords.

Contact Information

98-100, Northcote Road, Battersea, London, SW11 6QW
[email protected]

Rafi Kahn headshot

Battersea Property Inventory Services

No Letting Go Battersea is head up by Rafi, Farhat and Armad Kahn. This family run franchise is dedicated to providing their clients with professional inventory services and reports for landlords and letting agents in the areas of SW11 and SW18. Rafi is an experienced inventory and property reporting specialist, with great local knowledge. Give them a call today to see how they could help your property business.

The No Letting Go Battersea branch offers;

  • Inventory management
  • Smoke and CO inspection and installation
  • 360 virtual photography
  • Property appraisals and floor plans
  • Property visits
  • Legionella risk assessments
  • Digisign automated check in

Contact Information

07863 357196
[email protected]
12 Saint Olaves Road, London E6 2PA, UK

Looking for property inventory services in London? Discover our full list of property inventory services for landlords, letting agents and property professionals.

Looking for trusted Islington letting agents?

As a provider of landlord and letting agent services, we work with a wide range of companies within the property market and understand the importance of finding dedicated and reliable property agents to protect your investment.

A good letting agent has excellent local knowledge and understands the specific pain points of letting property in a particular area. While our previous blog looked at the best letting agents in London, we’re taking a closer look at specific localities to help you identify the best property management services in your local area.

First up, we list some of the best Islington letting agents providing professional, friendly services to landlords and businesses in the area.

 

Chestertons Islington

Excellent Google reviews are a testament to this agency’s responsive customer service and dedication to clients. Taking great pride in the local community, the Islington branch of Chestertons lettings and estate agency is partnered with William Tyndale School, London Calling coat collection and St Mungo’s.

Their lettings team is head up by David Manning, who has over 20 years’ experience in the industry.

Contact Information

David Manning
[email protected]
327-329 Upper Street, Islington London N1 2XQ

 

Daniel Rose Residential Ltd

Settling in Islington in 2004 after letting properties around North West London, this family run lettings agency take pride in the personal touch they provide as part of their property services, going above and beyond for their clients.

Daniel Rose Residential provides landlords with property valuation, marketing material and promotion on popular property portals such as Zoopla and Rightmove.

This agency is a member of Client Money Protect (CMP) and The Property Ombudsman.

Contact Information

[email protected]
Ground Floor Office, 99 White Lion Street, London, N1 9PF

 

Felicity J Lord Letting Agents Islington

Described as sincere, trustworthy and tech-savvy by clients, Felicity J Lord Letting Agents in Islington is part of a multi-award winning agency.

The Islington office of Felicity J Lord covers a wide area, including Highbury, Canonbury, Barnsbury, Hoxton, Kings Cross, Caledonian Road, Holloway, Arsenal, Finsbury Park and Stroud Green.

Contact Information

Anthony Szabo, Area Director (Lettings)
[email protected]

Islington Felicity J Lord, 313 Upper Street, Islington, London, N1 2XQ

 

Islington Properties

Islington Properties describes itself as a ‘boutique residential property services company’ and is renowned for offering unique insights into the local area. Their Sales & Lettings Manager has worked in Islington for the past ten years and the rest of the team are ARLA qualified.

The team also offers tailored property management services as well as property valuations with no obligation to commit.

Contact Information

[email protected]
111 Upper St, Islington, London, N1 1QN

 

Founders Of London

From Islington to Regents Park, Founders of London have a combined 20 years of experience managing properties in prime central London locations.

With a close attention to detail, the agency offers free market appraisal to landlords as well as expert advice on maximising returns. The professional website and marketing materials on offer help to attract quality tenants with a short turnaround.

Founders of London are members of The Property Redress Scheme (PRS) and Clients’ Money Protection Scheme (CMP).

Contact Information

47 Islington Park Street, London, N1 1QB, United Kingdom

 

Hemmingfords

Hemmingfords lettings agent started out as a husband and wife team with a mission to make lettings more transparent for both landlord and tenant.

Working with properties in Islington, Shoreditch, Clerkenwell, Hackney, Bethnal Green and the City, the couple live and work in the area and have extensive local knowledge. They also strive to be an eco-friendly option by minimising printing and using electric company cars.

Co-founder Rose has landlord experience herself and can offer guidance, care and value within all aspects of the rental process.

Contact Information

[email protected]
We Work, 41 Corsham St, Hoxton, London N1 6DR

 

Friar Lettings

This independent, family run lettings agent has been providing lettings and property management services since 1999. Described as helpful and professional without being ‘pushy, the small team at Friar Lettings are valued by clients for their down to earth nature and reliability.

Contact Information

[email protected]
Gainsborough Studios North, Unit A, 1 Poole Street, N1 5EB

 

Charles David James

Charles David James lettings in Islington provides professional services to a small number of clients to ensure each one feels taken care of and specialises in managing property for homeowners relocating overseas.

Charlie is described by clients as ‘approachable’, ‘honest’ and ‘helpful’ with a straightforward approach.

Contact Information

[email protected]
Unit 11 Canonbury Yard, 202-208 New North Road, London N1 7BJ

 

 

PG Estates Islington

Since taking the reins from his father in 2005, Ed Gormley has taken PG Estates lettings to new heights. Excellent customer service and forging long-standing relationships is at the heart of the company’s ethos.

Rave reviews from the landlords and tenants on their books are a testament to the care the team at Islington put into their dealings with customers. They offer bespoke marketing, property management and short lets as part of their services.

The lettings agent is a member of The Property Ombudsman and ARLA.

Contact Information

020 7226 4994
350 Upper Street, Islington, London, N1 0PD

 

 

Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward Islington Estate Agents

In operation since 1977, Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward can be found in 60 locations across London, making it one of the larger estate agents on our list. They have a wide network of specialists and experienced staff on hand. Their high Google review rating from Islington clients speaks volumes about their superb communication, professionalism and efficiency.

Contact Information

[email protected]
298 Upper Street, Islington, N1 2TU

 

No Letting Go Islington & Camden Property Inventory Services

No Letting Go’s Islington and Camden branch is led by Chris Ford. After 23 years of experience in the retail industry, Chris made the switch to property in 2017. Since then, property has become his passion and he always strives to go above and beyond for his clients of landlords and letting agents.

Chris-Ford-Islington-branch

The Islington & Camden team offer;

  • Highly detailed inventory reports
  • Inventory Management in Islington
  • Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Inspections
  • 360 Virtual Photography
  • Property Appraisals and Floorplans
  • Property Visit (Mid Term Inspection)
  • Legionella Risk Assessment and water testing

 

Contact Information

07415 087316
[email protected]
48 Weavers Way, London NW1 0XE, UK

Are you a letting agent operating in the Islington area that we’ve missed off our list? We’d love to hear from you! Get in touch to be added to the list or head to the website to discover our range of property inventory services.

December can be a slow period for the rental industry. As students return home for the festive season and people hold off on moving until the new year, finding tenants in winter can become tricky, and some landlords and lettings agents can start to feel the pinch.

To attract tenants for rental property over the Christmas period and minimise void periods, we’ve got some tips. From ramping up your marketing efforts, to offering incentives, find out how to rent your property during the festive season.

 

Finding Tenants in Winter: Why is Christmas a Slow Period?

Christmas and New Year bring parties and family engagements, with many people travelling across the country to visit relatives. During this busy time of year, most people are looking to relax and recharge, putting off big chores such as moving house until after the New Year’s celebrations have come to a close.

This can spell bad news for the rental sector in December, as tenants delay their property search, slowing down the rental property market. Christmas is an expensive time for landlords and tenants, and losing out on rental income during this period is best avoided.

To minimise void periods this winter, we’ve got some tips for landlords;

 

Ramp Up Your Marketing

Getting your rental property out there is half the battle. Investing in high quality, professional marketing can be the difference between an empty property or a wide pool of tenants to choose from.

Start by ensuring your property is advertised through at least one of these avenues;

Your marketing assets need to appeal to your target tenant. So, if you’re targeting families, highlighting your property’s proximity to local schools should help to attract the right tenants.

When it comes to advertising your rental property, detailed descriptions and quality images work best. To maximise your property’s potential, investing in a professional 360 virtual photography service can really make it stand out from the crowd.

 

Short Holiday Lets

If you’re struggling to find long term tenants in December, you could consider a short-term holiday let. Those in need of immediate income could advertise property on a short-term holiday lettings platform.

However, if you do decide to go down this route, you need to be aware of the risks involved. Sites such as these provide less security when it comes to protecting your property and you need to be careful about who you accept.

 

Rethink Your Target Tenant

If you’re not having any luck letting to your target tenant, why not try advertising to a different tenant group?

For example, most students return home for the holidays. If you’re normally a student landlord, advertising to young professionals over this period could solve your rental income issues in the short-term.

 

Offer a Festive Incentive

Some landlords and letting agents are resorting to incentives to attract tenants over the slower winter months.

This could take the form of;

  • A temporary reduction in rent
  • Free utilities for the first month of a tenancy

This slight reduction in rental yield for the first month of the tenancy is worth it if it means you can avoid empty properties over winter.

 

Is Your Property Appealing?

As there is less competition over the Christmas period, tenants can afford to be more choosy. To make your property stand above the rest, it’s worth ensuring that property maintenance is up to scratch and your property is appealing to your target tenant.

Property maintenance can include;

  • Winter garden maintenance
  • Replacing tired furniture and furnishings
  • Freshening up paint work
  • Ensuring all repairs have been made in time for property viewings from prospective tenants

Painting and decorating equipment in room

Managing Winter Void Periods

If you do find yourself facing a December without tenants, it pays to ensure your property is well equipped to handle the winter months left empty.

Some vital winter property maintenance tasks include;

  • Having boilers and heating systems serviced to avoid burst pipes
  • Setting the heating on a timer to avoid damp and mould
  • Repairing any cracks in the property exterior to prevent leaks
  • Replacing missing roof tiles and clearing autumn leaves from guttering
  • Installing a robust security system
  • Commission regular vacant property inspections to check for damage

By keeping on top of property maintenance, you can avoid disasters such as burst pipes and mould growth during winter void periods, saving you money in the long run.

If you’re worried about loss of income over this period, it may be worth investing in unoccupied property insurance. This type of landlord insurance covers you if your property is vacant for 30 days or more.

 

Gift Yourself this Christmas

Busy landlords need a break too. Treat yourself this Christmas with the gift of a professional property inventory service.

Here at No Letting Go, we can help you minimise the risk of void periods by offering 360-degree property photography to amplify your property advertising, alongside essential property reporting services.

We also offer vacant property inspections and maintenance reports to protect your property over the winter.

Need a helping hand? Get in touch or browse our full list of property inventory services.

Finding a reliable removal company can be a challenge, and tenants often turn to their landlord or letting agent for advice at the end of a tenancy.

Providing quality recommendations for trusted tradespeople and services builds trust with tenants and means they’re more likely to pass on your details to friends and family.

In order to provide your tenants with reputable removals services, we explore what to look for when searching for a removal company and the benefits of using this service.

 

Do I Need a Removals Company?

If your tenant asks this question at the end of a tenancy, the answer is usually yes. Most people gather lots of belongings, even over the space of a year. When packing and transporting expensive items of furniture and fragile items, it can pay to leave it to the professionals.

Unless the property is very small, they are renting one room or rent a fully furnished property, it’s likely a professional removal service will be beneficial.

A professional removal service offers tenants;

  • Time saving
  • Safer packing and transportation of fragile items
  • More van space

A professional removal service is even more important for families with lots of belongings and older tenants who may struggle to pack up their home.

 

How Do I Choose a Removal Company?

We’ve broken down finding the right removal company into a few simple steps;

 

Location

The first consideration is location. Removal companies based locally to your rental properties are likely to be cheaper than those that have further to travel.

These companies could become part of a portfolio of recommended tradespeople and services you can offer to your tenants.

 

Comparison Sites

One of the first places to go for local removal companies is a comparison site. Here, you will find a list of trusted traders and you will be able to filter your search results to find relevant companies more quickly.

Searching by price point, location and reviews can help narrow down your search.

 

Removal Quotes

The next step once you have found a few possible candidates is to check removal quotes. Most tenants will be searching for the most affordable option, so if you can recommend a reasonable company they should be happy customers.

Try to get at least three different quotes for the same move, with each cost broken down into insurance, packing, hourly rate, mileage and storage.

 

Customer Reviews

We’ve all heard disaster stories of rogue movers damaging expensive furniture or losing sentimental items, and tenants won’t be happy if your recommendation goes wrong.

Once you have narrowed down the search further, it’s time to check the customer reviews. Sometimes, companies are cheap for a reason, and you should be able to weed out any unreliable movers from the reviews online.

 

How do I Find a Reputable Moving Company?

We’ve got some top tips on how to spot a quality removal company you can rely on;

 

Ask for Recommendations

Word of mouth can be a powerful tool for finding reliable tradespeople and services.

Have any of your friends or family moved home recently? They may have their own recommendations to offer. It’s also worth checking which removal companies local letting agents recommend.

 

Have They Been Regulated?

An easy way to determine whether a removal firm is trustworthy, is to check whether they are a member of any regulatory boards or associations.

Check if the company is a member of The British Association of Removers (BAR), a regulatory body which ensures professional excellence. With lists of residential and commercial movers, all companies listed have been tested to industry standards.

 

Questions to Ask the Movers

Before you recommend a removal company to your tenant, ask these questions first;

  • How long has the company been operating?
  • Do you offer pre move surveys?
  • Do you offer storage facilities?
  • Do your quotes include insurance?
  • Is a packing service included?
  • Is parking on moving day included?
  • What is your delay policy?
  • Do you ask for any additional removal costs?

Having all the important information to hand is of great use for busy tenants and will make a great impression long term.

 

How Much Notice Do Removal Companies Need?

The process of getting an initial quote for moving house, the subsequent survey, finding an available date and getting all of the documents in order can take several weeks. It’s a good idea to remind tenants of this as it comes nearer to the end of their tenancy so they can be fully prepared on moving day.

 

What is the Average Cost of Removals?

The cost of using a professional removals company is dependent on several factors;

  • The number and size of the items being transported
  • The distance between properties
  • Size of the removals team on the day
  • Whether it includes packing and packing materials

 

The Movers and Storers Show

Another way to find reputable moving companies is to attend an industry event such as the Movers and Storers Show.

This year, the show is taking place in Coventry, 19th-20th November and is a convenient place to find trusted partners.

 

The Importance of Trusted Property Partners

Reputation is important in the lettings industry. If a tenant has a positive moving experience thanks to your recommendation, they are more likely to consider your services in the future and give positive recommendations to friends and family.

That goes for all services you use to manage the rental properties in your portfolio.

Here at No Letting Go, we offer a range of professional services to help landlords and letting agents manage their portfolios and stay on top of their responsibilities.

From property inventory to property visits, our services are designed to protect your investment for the long term.

Browse our full list of property inventory services here to find out how we can help.

Anyone who has worked within the lettings industry will understand the importance of a thorough inventory for rental properties.

And when landlords skip this vital step, major issues can occur. If you’re left facing serious damage at the end of a tenancy without the proper reports, you may lose out on thousands of pounds.

We explore the power of inventories by highlighting a recent high-profile case featuring a former pop star and £70,000 worth of damage.

 

Do I Need An Inventory?

Yes, as a landlord or letting agent, it is important to have an inventory report in place to provide the evidence needed if you need to make a claim on the deposit at the end of the tenancy.

Without a detailed inventory, you could be left having to repair damage out of your own pocket. We’ve created a simple guide on the key components to include and why they’re necessary;

 

Property Management Inventory Checklist

An inventory report must include the following key components;

  • A record of meter readings and keys provided
  • The condition and cleanliness of each room, including appliances, fixtures and fittings
  • A record of the condition of the garden, including any damage
  • A signature from the tenant confirming they agree with the contents of the report
  • A record of the condition of the mattresses if fully furnished
  • Date & time stamped photos of the property and its contents

It must also include essential safety points;

  • A record of furniture and furnishing fire safety labels
  • Evidence that the Smoke and CO alarms comply with legislation (working order & correct placement)
  • A record of loose or frayed carpets, cracked glass or windows, missing keys and inoperable locks

 

Check Out Report

In addition to the initial inventory report and schedule of condition that takes place when a tenant moves into a rental property, you will also need a check out report when they move out at the end of the tenancy.

Following the final inspection, the check out report should;

  • Include a detailed record of the condition of the property
  • Clearly show how the property has changed throughout the tenancy (in combination with the initial check in report)
  • Include recommended actions for landlords and tenants

This report provides a vital benchmark to help assess any changes to the property from the start of the tenancy to the end.

If any deposit disputes arise, these reports should provide clear evidence to help landlords get a fair return on any losses or repairs required.

 

Top Reasons for Tenancy Deposit Disputes

Some of the main reason’s disputes occur include;

  • Cleaning 54%
  • Damage 49%
  • Decoration 31%
  • Rent 20%
  • Gardening 16%

 

Dealing with Deposit Disputes

The security deposit taken at the start of a tenancy is considered the tenant’s money. This means that it can be tricky for landlords to withhold the deposit in response to damage or loss without significant evidence.

You will need to prove there is damage to your rental property above normal wear and tear in order to claim on the deposit.

That’s why poorly compiled inventory reports are one of the most common reasons landlords lose disputes.

Tip: Always enter the deposit into a tenancy deposit protection scheme as this is a legally required step!

 

Celebrity Rental Drama: The Power of Inventories

To demonstrate our point, we’ve got a high profile case study in which a property rental disaster was averted thanks to comprehensive inventory reports.

Former En-Dubz star and X Factor Judge, Tulisa Contostavlos was recently ordered to pay over £70,000 worth in damage to the landlord of her former luxury rental property.

Reported damage to the luxury North London flat included a smashed sink, cigarette burns, stains and doors ripped from hinges. Despite arguing that the damage was normal wear and tear, she was ordered to pay compensation, interest and legal costs to her former landlord.

Key to this case was the presence of a thorough and professional inventory and check-out report.

Clearly, a high rental value is no protection against severe damage, so no matter which end of the market you’re positioned in, covering your back is essential if you want to recover your costs.

Looking for help managing your portfolio of rental properties in London? Find a list of our No Letting Go London offices.

 

What is Fair Wear and Tear?

It can be problematic working out what is considered fair wear and tear as it differs case by case. Some examples of fair wear and tear include;

  • Small scuff marks on walls
  • Naturally worn down carpets
  • Frayed fabrics
  • Faded curtains
  • Carpet indentations

However, when we talk about damage this could include;

  • Broken locks or doors
  • Burn marks or large carpet stains
  • Holes in the walls
  • Broken windows or furniture
  • Poorly painted walls

One of the easiest ways to determine the difference is by commissioning a professional inventory clerk to visit the property and make a detailed report, including photographic imagery at the start of the tenancy.

 

How To Protect Your Rental Property from Damage

There are a few more steps you can take to protect your rental property;

Regular Property Inspections

To avoid a similar situation, making quarterly inspections of the property can help encourage tenants to practice good property maintenance.

Target Long Term Tenants

In addition, targeting long-term tenants who are more likely to treat the property as their home will help to avoid intentional damage.

Keep it Simple

Keep decoration simple and ensure your property is thoroughly clean at the start of the tenancy to avoid any future disputes.

 

Avoid the Risks with A Professional Inventory Service

You’ve heard the warning, now it’s time to cover your back. One of the easiest ways to protect your investment as a landlord or letting agent is to commission a professional inventory company to undertake comprehensive inventory reports and checks.

Our independent inventory clerks across the country are experienced at providing essential reports, checks and visits to help you stay protected from move in date up until the end of the tenancy agreement.

To find out how we could help, browse our list of professional property inventory services to get started.

We are delighted to have been shortlisted for the Best Supplier of the Year category with the prestigious Negotiator Awards.

These property awards help customers narrow down the search for the most reliable lettings and property services companies, while bringing well deserved recognition to hardworking property professionals.

Find out what the awards are all about and why No Letting Go has been nominated.

 

The Negotiator Awards

The Negotiator Awards provide a platform to celebrate the best of UK estate and lettings agencies in the residential property industry.

Since 2008, these awards have been recognising talent at one of the most lavish property parties of the year. Held at the Grosvenor House Hotel on Park Lane, London a black tie dinner is finished off with celebrity entertainment. No fees are accepted for entries, making the awards an inclusive and fair celebration of the industry.

Categories include; Community Champion, Marketing Campaign of the Year and Employer of the Year.

This year’s awards ceremony takes place on 29th November, 2019 where the winners will be revealed. With last year’s proceedings seen over by comedian Julian Clary, we’re excited to see who’s presenting the 2019 awards!

 

Supplier of the Year

We’re very pleased to be included in the shortlist for Supplier of the Year: Products and Services.

This is a competitive category, with a plethora of respected companies providing products and services to the lettings industry.

Last year we took home the silver award for this category, with Viewber taking gold, and Tenant Shop achieving bronze.

 

 

Our Professional Services

So, why are we being nominated for our delivery of products and services?

Whether you’re a landlord, letting agent, property professional or housing association, our teams of clerks provide a reliable, professional service to help you save time and protect your investment.

Here at No Letting Go, we offer;

Our No Letting Branches are spread across the UK, providing specific areas with tailored advice and services.

 

No Letting Go’s Accolades

Our teams work hard to provide their customers with quality services that put the customer’s needs at the centre.

Thanks to their dedication, we have been lucky enough to receive the following awards,

  • Bronze award for Supplier of the Year in The Times and Sunday Times
  • Lettings Agency of the Year 2016 Awards
  • Rachel Farr of our Bath branch was a finalist in the Woman Franchisee 2017 EWIF Awards
  • Best Inventory Supplier 2009

In addition, we’re also accredited by Safe Contractor, the British Franchise Association (BFA), Property Redress Scheme (PRS) and are regulated by Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA:PropertyMark)

 

How Can We Help?

Whilst we are crossing our fingers to win an award in November, we are proud to have been shortlisted alongside some fantastic brands in this category, and it is testimony to the high quality of services provided by our 65 offices around the country.

If you’re looking for unbiased property reporting and inventory services, browse our full list of property services to find out how we could help.

Subletting is surprisingly common and can offer benefits for both landlords and tenants. But what counts as subletting? And what do landlords need to know about the risks?

We explore what subletting is and what you can do as a landlord to mitigate the risks.

 

What is Considered Subletting?

Subletting is when a tenant decides to rent out either a room or whole property to a third party. For example, if a tenant decides to go travelling for an extended period, they might try to let their room out to another tenant to pay their rent. Other reasons could include;

  • Change in income
  • If they need to relocate before the end of a contract
  • If another tenant decides to move out before the end of the tenancy and they need to fill the space

To be a sublet, the original, existing tenant needs to give exclusive access of at least one area of the property to the subtenant. The subtenant will not pay rent directly to the landlord but to the original tenant.

 

Is Subletting Illegal?

In most cases, subletting is legal if the tenant obtains the landlords permission to let out the rental property.

However, if the tenant sublets without written permission, they could come into legal difficulties.

 

Can A Landlord Refuse A Sublet?

This all depends on what it says in the tenancy agreement. If there is a section in the agreement that says a tenant can ask the landlord to sublet, landlords will need to have a valid reason for refusal.

However, if there is no mention of subletting in the tenancy agreement, as a landlord, you can refuse more easily.

It’s worth noting that in the case of fixed term tenancies, the tenant may still be able to sublet without consent if there is no mention in the agreement. That’s why it’s important to be clear on the terms of your agreement from the get-go.

Not keen on the idea of allowing a tenant to sublet? There are a few steps you can take to ensure it doesn’t happen;

  • Include a section in the tenancy agreement prohibiting subletting
  • Arrange regular property inspections to help prevent unwanted subletting. The professional carrying out the inspection will usually be able to tell if something is awry. It will also indicate to your tenants that you aren’t complacent as a landlord.
  • Try to develop strong relationships with your tenants so they come to you first if they are having any difficulties making the rent.

 

Illegal Subletting

If a tenant decides to go ahead and sublet without permission, there are two main circumstances that most commonly occur;

The tenant rents out a room in the property whilst still living at the address.

This is the most common situation, and often happens when flatmates move out unexpectedly.

In this situation, think carefully about how you want to proceed. If the new subtenant has caused no issues and the rent is paid on time, it can sometimes be advantageous to allow them to continue living at the property. If this is the case, draw up an agreement to stay protected. Don’t accept any payment until you have a proper tenancy agreement in place.

The tenant rents out several or all the rooms in the rental property whilst living at a different address.

This could have serious consequences for you as the landlord. If these subletting tenants report issues to the original tenant who they assume is the landlord, property maintenance issues may go unresolved and you start to lose control of your property.

 

What Happens If Your Tenant Sublets Without Permission?

If you discover your tenant is subletting without your permission, there are a few steps you can take;

  • Talk to your original tenant first to find a solution
  • If the tenant persists subletting, sub-tenants should be informed, and either be asked to vacate the property or draw up a new tenancy agreement for them
  • If all else fails and the subtenant refuses to vacate, you may need to begin the eviction process

 

What Are The Risks Of Subletting?

If a tenant decides to sublet their room, there are a number of risks you need to be aware of;

Insurance and Mortgage

Some insurance and mortgage providers don’t allow subletting and ignoring this could lead to voiding your contract. It’s vital you avoid this at all costs by checking your agreement before allowing a sublet.

End of The Tenancy

If your original tenant decides to move out, but their subtenant is still living in your rental property, you may come up against issues. Evicting a tenant without a tenancy agreement can get complicated.

 

How Do You Sublet Safely? Tips for Landlords

Subletting doesn’t always spell disaster. In fact, it can be profitable for both landlord and tenant, solving common issues such as change of circumstance.

If you do decide to grant your tenant permission to sublet, here’s a few steps you can take to ensure your investment stays protected;

  • Ensure you are clear on the contents of the tenancy agreement and what it says about subletting. If there is no mention, you may want to add a clause to be on the safe side.
  • Spend time on tenant referencing to ensure you end up with reliable, trustworthy tenants.
  • Spend time getting to know your tenants and making a good impression. This way, they are more likely to come to you first if their circumstances change.
  • Carry out regular property inspections.

 

Protect Your Investment with No Letting Go

If you need a helping hand protecting your investment, we have teams of experienced inventory clerks across the country ready to support you.

We can provide regular property visits, every 3-4 months to ensure your property is being well maintained and tenants are fulfilling their contractual obligations.

In addition, a comprehensive inventory report is one of the best ways to protect your investment in the long term.

Interested in hearing more? Get in touch or visit our services page to find our property inventory packages.