Stepping into property letting can feel exciting—but also daunting if you’re new. Whether it’s just one flat or a whole portfolio, getting prepared from the start saves time, stress, and money.
At Orange Estates Solutions, we help first-time landlords get it right from day one.
Here are five key tips to kick things off strong.
Being a landlord means more than just collecting rent—you have a legal duty to keep the property safe and compliant. This includes staying on top of annual gas safety certificates, arranging regular electrical checks, installing smoke alarms on every floor, and placing carbon monoxide detectors in rooms with solid fuel appliances. Deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days, and you are required to complete Right-to-Rent checks. You also need to provide tenants with the correct paperwork, such as the How to Rent Guide and an EPC certificate.
Many landlords overlook deposit protection, which can result in fines of up to three times the deposit amount. If tracking all of this feels overwhelming, a professional property management service can handle it for you and provide complete peace of mind.
Good tenants make life easier, while bad ones can lead to unpaid rent, property damage, or even eviction processes. Always check a tenant’s employment and income to ensure they can afford the rent comfortably. Reviewing credit history helps identify red flags such as late payments or CCJs, while references from previous landlords give you a clearer picture of their reliability.
If you would prefer not to manage this yourself, letting agents or management companies can carry out these checks thoroughly on your behalf.
Setting the rent at the right level is crucial. If you set it too high, the property may remain empty for months. If you set it too low, you lose valuable income. Research similar properties on platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla, and check with local agents for comparisons. Take into account seasonal demand, such as peak times for student lettings, and ensure that the rent covers essential costs including mortgage payments, insurance, and repairs.
Some landlords choose to set rent slightly below the market average to minimise empty periods and encourage longer tenancies. If stability matters most to you, this can be a smart strategy.
A well-maintained property not only protects your investment but also keeps tenants happy, which increases the chances they will stay longer. Carrying out inspections every three to six months allows you to catch small issues before they become costly problems. Responding quickly to repair requests shows tenants that you care about their comfort, while keeping records of all maintenance is useful for legal purposes and future reference.
Ignoring minor issues, such as a dripping tap, often leads to larger and more expensive repairs later on. Acting fast is always the better option.
Rental management might seem simple at first, but in reality it can be complex and time-consuming. Chasing late rent, handling emergency repairs, and keeping up with ever-changing regulations can quickly become overwhelming. If you lack the time, experience, or proximity to the property, using a professional management service is the best solution.
At Orange Estates Solutions, we take care of everything from advertising and tenant sourcing to referencing, contracts, rent collection, arrears, and repairs. We also ensure that your property remains legally compliant at all times, allowing you to enjoy the rewards of your investment without the daily stress.
Becoming a landlord is a significant responsibility, but with proper preparation and the right support, it can be a highly rewarding investment. Understand your legal obligations, choose tenants wisely, set the rent correctly, stay on top of maintenance, and seek professional help if you need it. Following these steps sets you up for long-term success.
Contact Orange Estates Solutions today for expert advice and tailored property management in London.