As a landlord it’s your responsibility to ensure that your property meets a certain standard. To help you do this, we’ve come up with some useful tips and suggestions, from legal requirements to goodwill gestures. They’re simple, easy to achieve and will help keep your tenants both safe and satisfied.
Smoke alarms
Fire damage is one of the most common forms of insurance claim in the UK, and in 2011-2012 accounted for 380 fatalities. Installing a working smoke alarm in your rented property is by far the most effective way to minimise the risk of death or injury and reduce the scope of any damage should something catch alight. According to recent statistics households with working smoke alarms are four times less likely to fall victim to fire related fatalities. This makes a smoke alarm a life saving device! Keep in mind that if your property is a large HMO installing a working smoke alarm is a legal requirement.
Gas safety certificates
Issuing your tenants with a gas safety check is a legal requirement and must be done within 28 days of the official inspection being carried out. This gives tenants complete peace of mind that the property’s gas system is 100% safe. While a gas safety check will help to minimise the risk of property damage is does not quash it altogether. As such it’s also advisable for landlords to have a comprehensive landlord’s insurance policy in place should anything go wrong.
Outdoor lighting
Outdoor lighting isn’t a legal requirement but it can have a significant impact on the safety and satisfaction of tenants. Something as simple as an automatic sensor light installed by the front door will help repel burglars and give tenants a sense of security when they arrive home in the dark.
Burglar alarms
As a landlord it’s at your discretion whether or not you offer your tenants access to a burglar alarm. Of course, a burglar alarm is always desirable and will help to protect your property from damage and vandalism as well as safeguard the possessions of your tenants.
Secure windows and doors
As a landlord you’re obliged to offer your tenants a certain level of security throughout the property. At the very minimum this should include lockable windows and doors. Any extra security features will help increase the safety of your property as well as your tenants.
Comfortable furnishings
While furnishings don’t have to be ultra-modern it is advisable to offer a standard that you would be happy with for yourself. As well as creating a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing living environment fire safe furnishings will also minimise the risk of property damage and bring a property into line with fire safety regulations.
By following these six simple steps you can make sure that your rental property and its tenants are as safe, secure and satisfied as possible.
