When preparing your property for the rental market, one of the key decisions you’ll face
is whether your furniture is up to the task. After all, the right furniture can not only enhance the appeal of your
property but also attract the right tenants. Here’s what you need to know:

1. Prioritise Durability
   Your furniture needs to stand the test of time – after all, rental properties experience high foot traffic. Choose furniture
   that’s both durable and easy to maintain. Hard-wearing materials such as leather, high-quality upholstery,
   and sturdy wood will help ensure longevity, reducing the need for frequent replacements.
2. Opt for a Neutral Palette
   A neutral colour scheme will always have mass appeal. Think simple, timeless designs in shades like grey, beige, or
   navy. These tones allow tenants to easily personalise the space without clashing with their belongings, and
   they also help maintain a modern, sophisticated look throughout the years.
3. Make the Most of Your Space
   Smart furniture choices can make a small space feel bigger and more inviting. Multi-functional pieces, like
   fold-away tables, sofa beds, and storage units, are a great way to offer versatility. Tenants value
   practicality, especially in flats or houses where space is at a premium.
4. Don’t Skimp on Comfort
   Tenants want to feel at home, and that starts with comfortable, functional furniture. From a cosy sofa to a practical
   dining table, make sure the furniture serves its purpose well. Quality furnishings will not only impress
   your tenants but can also justify a higher rental price.
5. Check Fire Safety Compliance
   When furnishing a rental property, always keep safety top of mind. All upholstered furniture must meet fire
   safety regulations, with the appropriate fire safety labels clearly visible. This is crucial for the safety
   of your tenants and is a legal requirement in the UK.

At Enfields, we’re here to help make your rental property as attractive as possible. If you’re unsure whether your furniture is suitable, or if you need expert advice on preparing your home for the rental market, get in touch. Our experienced team is ready to guide you every step of the way.

Setting the right rental price for your property is crucial – charge too little, and you risk losing out on potential income; charge too much, and you may struggle to attract tenants. So, how do you determine the right rent? Here are the key factors to consider:

1. Location, Location, Location
   The area your property is situated in plays a significant role in how much rent you can charge. Properties in
   sought-after locations, such as proximity to transport links, schools, or local amenities, generally command
   higher rents. Research rental prices for similar properties in your neighbourhood to get a sense of what’s
   competitive.
2. Size and Condition of the Property
   The size of your property – number of bedrooms, bathrooms, and overall square
   footage – directly impacts the rent you can charge. A larger property or one with additional features, such as
   a garden or parking, can justify a higher rent. Additionally, if your property is well-maintained, modern,
   and includes quality finishes, you’ll have room to increase the asking price compared to older, less updated
   homes.
3. Amenities and Features
   Properties with desirable features, such as a modern kitchen, energy-efficient appliances, or high-speed internet, can
   justify higher rent. Don’t forget to factor in additional features like off-street parking, outdoor space,
   or even furnished vs. unfurnished options, as these can all influence the rent you can charge.
4. Market Demand
   Rental prices fluctuate based on supply and demand. If there’s high demand in your area, you can likely charge a premium. Conversely, in a more competitive market with more properties available, you may need to adjust your asking
   price to attract tenants.
5. Tenant Expectations
   Understanding what tenants expect in your price range is key. For example, tenants willing to pay higher rents might
   expect luxury finishes and additional services, such as maintenance or cleaning. Ensure that the rent you
   set aligns with the level of service and quality your property offers.
6. Expert Valuation
   For a more accurate assessment, consider seeking expert advice. Enfields offers free property valuations and can help you determine the most competitive rental price for your property based on current market conditions.
7. Legal Consideration
   Lastly, always make sure that your rental price is in line with local rent control laws and that you’re aware of any legal
   obligations when it comes to rental price increases. A professional agent can help ensure you’re compliant
   and avoid any potential issues down the line.

At Enfields, our team of experienced professionals can help you assess your property’s value, ensuring you set a fair and competitive rental price that maximises your investment. If you’re unsure where to start, get in touch with us for a no-obligation valuation today.

When you let a property through Enfields, receiving your rent is a straightforward process. Typically, rent is collected from the tenant by direct debit or standing order on the agreed payment date. Once the funds have cleared, they are promptly transferred to your nominated bank account.

To ensure transparency, you’ll receive a detailed statement outlining the rental income, any management fees, and other relevant deductions, if applicable. Enfields provides a reliable and efficient system, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your payments are handled securely and on time.

If you have any questions about the process, Enfields’ experienced team is always available to assist.

If a tenant fails to pay rent, Enfields has procedures in place to manage the situation effectively and minimise stress for landlords. Here’s what you can expect:

1. Prompt Action:
   As soon as a missed payment is identified, Enfields will contact the tenant to understand the situation and remind them of their obligations.

2. Payment Plans:
   If the tenant is experiencing temporary financial difficulties, Enfields may negotiate a payment plan to help them get back on track.

3. Legal Support:
   In cases where non-payment persists, Enfields can guide you through the legal process of recovering rent arrears or regaining possession of your property. Their experienced team will ensure all actions comply with UK rental laws, protecting your interests.

4. Rent Protection:
   If you’ve opted for a rent guarantee service, you’ll continue to receive rental payments as agreed, even if the tenant
   defaults.

Enfields’ goal is to resolve issues swiftly while maintaining professionalism and compliance. If you’re concerned about potential rent arrears, their team is always available to offer advice and support.

Tenant referencing is a vital step to ensure you select reliable tenants for your property. Enfields handles this process thoroughly on your behalf, using industry-standard methods to assess potential tenants. Here’s how it works:

1. Identity Verification:
   Confirming the tenant’s identity through official documents such as passports or driving licences.

2. Credit Checks:
   Reviewing the tenant’s credit history to assess their financial reliability and ensure they don’t have outstanding debts
   or poor credit ratings.

3. Employment and Income Verification:
   Contacting employers to confirm the tenant’s income level and job stability, ensuring they can afford the
   rent.

4. Rental History:
   Checking references from previous landlords or letting agents to confirm the tenant’s payment history and behaviour as a tenant.

5. Right to Rent Check:
   Ensuring the tenant has the legal right to rent in the UK, as required by law.

By conducting these checks, Enfields reduces the risk of potential issues, helping you find trustworthy tenants for your property. Their experienced team will manage the entire process, saving you time
and ensuring peace of mind.

A tenant credit check is typically a quick process. In most cases, it can be completed within 24 to 48 hours. However, the exact timeframe may vary depending on:

1. Responsiveness of the Tenant:
   The speed at which the tenant provides the necessary information and authorisation to perform the check.

2. Referencing Provider:
   Some referencing agencies or systems may process checks faster than others, especially if the applicant’s details
   are straightforward.

3. Additional Verification Needs:
   If discrepancies arise or further clarification is required (e.g., unusual credit history or missing information), this could extend the timeline.

Enfields works efficiently to ensure credit checks are completed as quickly as possible, keeping landlords informed throughout the process. Their experienced team will also handle any follow-up inquiries to avoid unnecessary delays.

In most cases, landlords are responsible for covering the cost of tenant referencing when using a letting agent like Enfields. This cost is typically included as part of the agency’s overall service or management fee.

Tenant referencing fees cover important checks, including:

• Identity verification

• Credit history assessment

• Employment and income confirmation

• Rental history and landlord references

• Right to Rent checks (as required by UK law)

The cost of referencing ensures thorough due diligence, helping landlords select reliable tenants and minimise potential risks.

If you’re unsure about the fees involved, Enfields’ team can provide a clear breakdown of costs and explain exactly what’s included in their services.

When letting out your property through Enfields, there are several fees that you may need to account for. These fees cover essential services and ensure your property is managed efficiently. The exact costs will depend on the level of service you choose, but common fees include:

1. Letting or Management Fees

   • A percentage of the monthly rent or a fixed fee to cover tenant sourcing, advertising, and ongoing property management.

2. Tenant Referencing Fees

   • Covering credit checks, employment verification, and rental history reviews for prospective tenants.

3. Inventory and Check-In/Check-Out Fees

   • Preparing an inventory report and conducting check-in and check-out inspections to avoid disputes over deposit deductions.

4. Compliance Services

   • Optional costs for ensuring your property meets legal requirements, such as arranging gas safety certificates, energy performance certificates (EPC), or electrical safety checks.

5. Rent Guarantee Insurance
   (if selected)

   • Protecting your income in case the tenant defaults on payments.

Enfields provides a transparent breakdown of all fees before you proceed, so there are no unexpected costs. Their team is happy to discuss your options and tailor their services to meet your needs.

As a landlord, you’re entitled to make deductions from the tenant’s security deposit
if specific conditions outlined in the tenancy agreement are not met. However, all deductions must be fair,
reasonable, and supported by evidence. Common reasons for deductions include:

1. Unpaid Rent
   • If the tenant leaves without settling outstanding rent, you can
     deduct the owed amount from the deposit.
2. Property Damage
   • Repairs for damage beyond normal wear and tear, such as broken
     fixtures, holes in walls, or damaged appliances, can be deducted. General wear, like worn carpets or
     faded paint, cannot be claimed.
3. Cleaning Costs
   • If the property is not returned in the same clean condition as when
     the tenancy began, professional cleaning fees can be deducted.
4. Replacement of Missing Items
   • If items listed in the inventory are missing or damaged, their
     replacement cost can be claimed.
5. Unpaid Bills
   • Any utility bills or council tax left unpaid by the tenant that you,
     as the landlord, are liable for can be deducted.

Evidence Is Key

To ensure deductions are justified:

• Take dated photos or videos of the property before and after the tenancy.
• Maintain a clear and detailed inventory signed by the tenant.
• Keep all receipts and invoices for repairs, cleaning, or replacements.

Enfields can assist with inventory management and deposit disputes, ensuring you comply with UK tenancy deposit protection rules while safeguarding your rights as a landlord.

You can charge a tenant for cleaning if they leave the property in a condition that is not as clean as when their tenancy started. However, the charge must be reasonable, reflecting the actual cost of returning the property to its original state.

What to Consider When Charging for Cleaning:

1. Condition at the Start of the Tenancy

   • Use the signed inventory and check-in report to compare the property’s cleanliness before and after the tenancy. This will determine whether cleaning is necessary and fair.

2. Type of Cleaning Required

   • General cleaning (e.g., vacuuming, dusting) typically costs less than specialised cleaning services, such as carpet shampooing or deep cleaning for ovens or bathrooms.

3. Evidence of Costs

   • You cannot overcharge or estimate arbitrarily. Provide receipts or quotes from professional cleaners as evidence to justify the deduction.

4. Fair Wear and Tear

   • General wear and tear (e.g., light scuffs or fading) cannot be deducted. Cleaning charges should only apply to excessive dirt or neglect.

Average Cleaning Costs in the UK:

• Standard Cleaning: £15-£20 per hour.

• Deep Cleaning: £100-£250 for a whole property, depending on its size.

Enfields can guide you through the process of managing deductions to ensure compliance with deposit protection rules and avoid disputes. Always keep documentation to support your claim.