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December 12, 2024December 4, 2024

Letting Your property in Winter: Landlord Considerations

Renting Out Your Property in Winter? Considerations for Landlords

Letting a property in winter can be a unique experience, especially for landlords in Peterborough. While the colder months don’t necessarily bring a slower rental market, the season does offer opportunities for those who are prepared.

If you’re considering letting your rental property in Peterborough this winter, here are some essential tips to help ensure your property is tenant-ready and it remains comfortable throughout the winter season.

Preparing for Cold Weather

Winter presents a set of challenges that are particularly relevant for landlords in Peterborough. Here are a few ways to ensure your property remains a warm, comfortable, and attractive option for renters:

1. Insulate, Insulate, Insulate

A well-insulated property can save tenants a significant amount on heating bills – and that’s an attractive feature for anyone considering a rental property in Peterborough. Ensure lofts, walls, and windows are insulated. Double-glazing can also make a big difference, so if you haven’t upgraded yet, it may be worth the investment.

2. Check the Heating System

No tenant wants a cold home. Arrange for a boiler service and ensure all radiators work efficiently. As a property management company in Peterborough, we recommend checking portable heaters, fireplaces, and making sure tenants have easy access to reliable heating.

3. Gutter and Roof Maintenance

Winter often brings damp issues. Clear out the gutters and inspect the roof for loose tiles to prevent leaks. A well-maintained roof shows prospective tenants that you go the extra mile in caring for your property.

Enhancing Tenant Appeal During Winter

Winter is an ideal time to make your rental property in Peterborough stand out by focusing on features that create comfort and warmth. Here are some ideas to make your property more appealing to tenants:

1. Create a Warm and Welcoming Entrance

First impressions count, especially in winter. A well-lit, clean, and warm entrance can make a huge difference. Consider adding a clean doormat, good lighting, and even a coat rack near the entrance if possible. This helps potential tenants imagine coming home to a cosy retreat after a chilly day.

2. Add Winter-Friendly Touches

Small touches can go a long way. Include thick, insulated curtains to help keep the cold out and maintain a comfortable temperature inside. You might also consider providing tenants with a few winter essentials, like fitting draft excluders on doors and windows. These items not only make the space feel cosy but also show that you have thought about tenants’ comfort.

3. Boost Natural Light

With shorter days, making the most of natural light can brighten up a space and make it feel larger and more inviting. Trim back any outside plants or bushes blocking the windows, and keep curtains and blinds open during the day. A well-lit space, even in the depths of winter, makes your rental property in Peterborough feel more welcoming.

4. Promote Energy Efficiency

In winter, tenants are often mindful of heating costs. Ensure any energy-efficient features, like a recent new boiler, insulated walls, or double-glazing, are detailed in your property listing. When tenants know they’ll save on energy bills, it can be a strong incentive to choose your property over others.

5. Prepare for Winter Weather Conditions

With potential snow, ice, and rain, winter weather can impact your property’s appeal. Keep outdoor paths and driveways clear, and make sure there’s a safe, dry place for tenants to store winter gear like boots, umbrellas, and coats. These practical touches and small details can make a big difference.

Handling Common Winter Concerns

Winter inevitably brings some typical challenges that landlords in Peterborough should be prepared to address. By taking these proactive steps, you can keep your property in good condition and ensure a comfortable living environment for your tenants.

1. Condensation and Damp

Condensation and mould is a common issue in winter. Be proactive by adding powerful extractor fans in the bathroom and kitchen. This keeps your rental property in Peterborough in good shape and shows tenants that you take their comfort seriously.

2. Winter Safety Checks

Winter weather can bring ice and snow. Ensure walkways and steps are safe, and consider providing grit or salt for tenants to use. If you’re renting out a flat, check with building management about winter maintenance practices.

3. Prepare for Power Cuts

Storms can lead to temporary power cuts. Equip your property with a basic emergency kit, including a torch, batteries, and blankets. This simple gesture demonstrates that you are a responsible landlord who cares about tenant safety.

Ready to Rent Out Your Property? We’re Here to Help!

At PTL Lettings, we’re here to help you make the most of the winter rental market. As a trusted property management company in Peterborough, we’re equipped to assist you in preparing, marketing, and managing your property this winter.

For expert advice and support, call us on 01733 555183 or email info@ptl-lettings.co.uk.

In the meantime, we’ve answered some of your common questions about renting out a property in winter.

FAQs for Landlords Renting in Winter

Is it harder to rent out a property in winter?

Currently the rental market is showing no signs of slowing down! Unlike those looking to buy property, renters don’t tend to be season specific.

What’s the best way to keep my property warm?

Regular boiler maintenance and good insulation are essential. Draught excluders and thick curtains are also helpful to retain heat and make your rental property in Peterborough more energy-efficient.

How can I make my property more attractive in winter?

Focus on making it warm, cosy, and efficient. Highlight any features that help reduce heating costs and make the space feel inviting for tenants.

August 15, 2024August 8, 2024

4 Things To Know About Landlord Insurance

Are you thinking about investing in landlord insurance? Unsure about things you should know about landlord insurance? While it may not be a legal requirement, you’re leaving yourself open to a huge amount of risk without it.

Here are the most important things you should know about landlord insurance, including what it is and what type of insurance you should get.

What Is Landlord Insurance?

Landlord insurance provides you with protection against the risks associated with renting to tenants.

Usually, landlord insurance includes protection against things like damages to the building or contents.

But there are other optional policies you can take out, like cover for boiler breakages or missed rent payments.

What Type of Landlord Insurance Should You Get?

There are many different types of landlord insurance available. Each one will cover you for different circumstances. The main types of cover available include:

Building – Covers the repair of structural damage, plus fixtures and fittings, in the event of a fire, storm, flood or other accident.
Contents – Covers damage or theft of furnishings, including things like curtains, carpets, and white goods. This doesn’t include items the tenant owns, as they should have their own tenant’s insurance.
Liability – Covers the costs if you or your tenant is injured on your property.
Rent guarantee – Recovers any missed rent payments by the tenant and any legal fees should you take a tenant to court.
Home emergency – Protects in the event of an emergency, like a boiler, plumbing, security, or pest issue.
Key care – Covers the cost of providing new locks or keys to tenants.

If you’re not sure which type of cover you need, speak to PTL Lettings and we’ll be happy to advise you, or check with your lender.

Click to Read 8 Things Every Landlord Should Know

4 Things To Know About Landlord Insurance

1. It’s Different To Home Insurance

Landlord insurance is very different to regular home insurance. If you have home insurance for a property, but you’re renting the space to a tenant, your policy will automatically be void. If you’re not living in the property, basic home insurance won’t provide you with the cover you need as a landlord.

2. Some Lenders Mandate It

It’s not a legal requirement to have landlord insurance. But most mortgage lenders will make it mandatory before entering into an agreement with you. If you don’t comply, you could be breaking the terms of your mortgage.

3. It’s Tax-Deductible

Just like most landlord expenses, you can usually claim back on the costs of your landlord insurance. Make sure you keep records of payment and notify your accountant (if you have one) about the costs.

4. Bulk Discounts Apply

If you rent more than one property, you could get a discount on your landlord insurance. Many providers will offer you a discount if you choose to arrange your insurance for all buildings on a bulk policy.

Click here to read 7 Steps to Becoming a Landlord in Peterborough

Rent With Confidence

At PTL Lettings, we can help you rent with the confidence and security you need. Find out why landlords choose us here!

For more advice on landlord insurance and property management services in Peterborough, get in touch with us today on 01733 555183 or email info@ptl-lettings.co.uk.

In the meantime, we’ve answered some of your common questions about landlord insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Landlord Insurance

Do I need landlord insurance if I have home insurance?

Standard home insurance doesn’t cover rental properties. You need a specific landlord insurance policy to protect your investment.

What does landlord insurance cover?

Landlord insurance typically covers building damage, loss of rent, public liability, and legal expenses. Some policies also include optional cover for contents, boiler breakdowns, and key replacement.

How much does landlord insurance cost?

The cost of landlord insurance depends on various factors, including the property’s value, location, number of tenants, and the level of cover you choose. It’s essential to compare quotes from different insurers to find the best deal.

Is landlord insurance a legal requirement?

While not legally required, most mortgage lenders will insist on landlord insurance before approving a mortgage for a rental property. It’s strongly recommended to protect your investment.

Rental Property Management in Peterborough For landlords

At PTL Lettings we are your local experts for property management in Peterborough. If you need expert letting agent or property management services or advice, our experienced team can help. Contact us today on 01733 555183 or email info@ptl-lettings.co.uk.

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August 1, 2024August 15, 2024

What Does A Labour Government Mean For Landlords In Peterborough?

With the Labour Party’s recent election victory, Sir Keir Starmer steps up as the new Prime Minister, and as the new government takes shape, landlords will be keen to understand the implications for the rental market.

The team at PTL Lettings has put together the key topics to watch including Section 21 evictions, energy efficiency standards, and changes in landlord taxes.

Key Issues Facing Landlords in Peterborough

Post-election, landlords will be closely monitoring Labour’s approach to several pressing issues in the rental market. These include:

Rising Costs: Increased mortgage rates and significant tax changes have reduced returns for many landlords.

Rental Reforms: Although plans to scrap Section 21 evictions were initially dropped, Labour intends to revive them.

Rental Housing Supply: A mismatch between rental supply and demand has led to steep rent increases in some areas.

Energy Efficiency: Previous plans to raise minimum energy efficiency standards were scrapped, but Labour aims to introduce new measures by 2030.

What Does a Labour Government Mean for Landlords: What is the Vision for the Rental Market?

Sir Keir Starmer emphasized ‘change’ during his election campaign and with a strong majority, Labour is now poised to implement its manifesto pledges, particularly those affecting the private rental sector and landlord taxation.

Labour’s Key Promises:

Abolish Section 21 Evictions: Labour plans to ban Section 21 (no-fault) evictions immediately.

Tenant Protections: Empowering tenants to challenge unreasonable rent increases and ban rental bidding wars (details on this are still pending).

Rent Caps: Capping the amount of rent that can be paid upfront.

Awaab’s Law: Extending this law, which mandates rectifying hazards like mould in social housing to also include private rentals. This will require landlords to fix any health hazards within a specified timeframe.

Energy Efficiency Standards: Introducing new standards by 2030, though the specific EPC rating required is yet to be determined, it is likely to be a C rating.

Gas Boilers: Remove the mandate to replace gas boilers by 2030. No-one will be forced to remove gas boilers as part of the energy efficiency standards.

Taxation Under Labour

Labour has pledged not to raise the basic, higher, or additional income tax rates. Corporation tax will stay at 25%, and VAT and National Insurance rates will remain unchanged.

However, landlords should look out for potential increases in capital gains tax rates as Labour seeks alternative funding sources.

What’s Next for Rental Reforms?

The Conservative government had proposed the Renters’ Reform Bill, which aimed to abolish Section 21 evictions and end fixed-term tenancies. Although the bill was dropped before the election, Labour is committed to scrapping Section 21 evictions immediately, and more details are expected soon.

Landlords and Lettings: Adapting to Changing Regulations

Landlords are still navigating a period of significant change. In The Kings Speech on Wednesday 17^th July, The King announced that the Government would introduce legislation to “give greater rights and protections” to those renting – including “ending no-fault evictions”, with draft legislation published on leasehold and commonhold reform.

In a further statement from Downing Street, the Government said: “The Renters’ Rights Bill delivers our manifesto commitment to transform the experience of private renting, including by ending Section 21 ‘no fault’ evictions…The Bill will give renters much greater security and stability so they can stay in their homes for longer, build lives in their communities, and avoid the risk of homelessness.”

Key Dates

Labour Party Conference: September 22-25, 2024, which will indicate the government’s priorities and Starmer’s early performance.

Potential Autumn Budget: October or November 2024, as Labour plans to hold one budget annually instead of alternating spring and autumn budgets.

Tips for Landlords:

Stay informed: It’s crucial landlords keep up-to-date with changes in regulations and legislation by following resources like the National Landlords Association (NLA). If in any doubt speak with a member of our lettings and property management team at PTL Lettings on 01733 555183.

Consider tenant retention rather than rent increases: A reliable tenant who takes good care of your property can be more valuable than a small increase in rent. Building a positive relationship with your tenants can lead to long-term stability and fewer void periods.

Maintain your property: Regular upkeep ensures your investment remains attractive to tenants and minimises the risk of costly repairs later.

Click to read:

A Guide To Purchasing A Buy-To-Let Property

Becoming A Landlord In Peterborough

8 Things UK Landlords Should Know

Rental Property Management in Peterborough For landlords

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June 20, 2024June 11, 2024

How To Create a Positive Landlord-Tenant Relationship: Advice for Peterborough Landlords

As a landlord in Peterborough, letting your property to new tenants can make you a little nervous. The best way to ensure that your tenant and you have the best possible experience is to create a positive landlord-tenant relationship.

When you create a positive landlord-tenant relationship, it will help keep your tenants happy, encourage them to take good care of your property, and may persuade them to renew once their initial tenancy ends.

Our team at PTL lettings has some tips to help you create the best landlord relationship with your tenants.

1. Good Communication Is Key

Before your new tenant moves in, communicate with them effectively to establish the house rules. Communicating expectations early helps avoid tension later, for example, should they want to redecorate or keep a pet.

2. Supply Your Contact Details

Tenants need to have a reliable person they can contact if they experience a problem, so make sure you’ve supplied your contact details and those of another trusted person who can efficiently deal with issues if you’re unavailable.

3. Leave A Guide For Tenants In The Property

Creating a handbook for your new tenants will help make settling in easier. Include details about how to use the heating system, the kitchen equipment, and the shower, as well as any other appliances. It’s also a good idea to include information about refuse collection day and local amenities like dentists, doctors, and supermarkets so they can familiarise themselves if they are new to the area.

4. Respond Quickly To Any Tenant Issues

If your tenant raises any issues, resolving them rapidly will go a long way when you attempt to create a positive tenant-landlord relationship. Your tenants want to be reassured that you care about their well-being and the property, so arranging repairs as quickly as possible is critical.

5. Be Prepared To Be A Flexible Landlord

When you find good tenants, holding onto them makes sense! That means being prepared to have a flexible attitude when renewing their tenancy. If they request a change or fix to enable them to continue their contract, taking a flexible approach to negotiations is wise.

6. Offer Longer Tenancies

With more people looking for rental properties in Peterborough, there is an increased desire for longer tenancies. Many tenants want the security of remaining in the property for the long term. When you find reliable tenants, consider offering them a longer tenancy. Not only does this benefit the tenants, but it also helps you since you’ll reduce the risk of having void periods between tenancies.

7. Use A Property Management Company in Peterborough

One of the best tips to foster a positive tenant-landlord relationship is to use the services of a reliable local property management company in Peterborough. Not only will they help to maximise your rental returns, but they will also take over all the challenging and time-consuming elements of managing your property.

All day-to-day management will be handled, like emergency repairs and more complex essentials like tenancy agreements, deposits, and rent collection.

Keep Landlord – Tenant Relationships On Track!

The team at PTL lettings are experts in the Peterborough rental market.

The team at PTL Lettings are experts in the Peterborough rental market. Call us today on 01733 555183, book a valuation, or email us at info@ptl-lettings.co.uk to find out how we can ensure you maintain the best possible relationship with your tenants.

April 25, 2024April 18, 2024

Should I Let Tenants Keep A Pet?

Data circulating the property industry provides a clear message – landlords don’t like tenants keeping a pet!

Data from gov.uk states that only 7% of UK rentals advertise themselves as pet-friendly. Potentially, there are a lot of missed opportunities from landlords sticking with the ‘no pets allowed’ policy.

In this article, we’ll explore what the UK law is on tenants keeping a pet. We will also look at the benefits of being pet-friendly for landlords and share our advice on how to safely allow your tenants to keep a pet.

Things to Consider About Letting Prospective Tenants With Pets Into Your Rental Property in Peterborough

What is the Law on Letting With Pets?

Ultimately, it’s the landlord’s decision as to whether a tenant can keep a pet in their property.

However, the UK government encourages more landlords to allow pet-friendly renting through the Model Tenancy Agreement. This is the government’s recommendation for what a good shorthold tenancy agreement should look like.

This contains two crucial elements about pets in rentals, including:

Landlords shouldn’t have a blanket ‘no pets allowed’ policy and;
Landlords should consider any request from a tenant to keep a pet seriously and only decline for good reason

Should I Let Tenants Keep a Pet?

While there are risks associated with a tenant having domestic pets (like damage to the property or causing a nuisance to neighbours), there are benefits, too.

Private landlords that accept pets and advertise their property as pet-friendly can:

Attract better tenants in the future
Sign longer leases (which can mean less chance of voids)
Stand out from the crowd
Keep existing tenants happy

How to Safely Let Your Property as Pet-Friendly

If you have decided that allowing pets is the right way to go, it’s time to lay down some ground rules and establish whether potential tenants are responsible pet owners or not.

Ask for Records

Depending on the animal, you may want to check that it’s up to date with its vaccinations. A pet owner who stays on top of vaccinations is a good sign that they are a responsible owner. Plus, it can reassure you that the animal is healthy and protected from diseases.

Check training and behaviour

If your tenant is requesting to keep a hamster, cat or reptile, checking training records isn’t important. But if your tenant wants to keep a dog on your property, make sure you ask about its training to see if they maintain responsible pet ownership.

Ask questions like:

Is the dog house-trained?
How much training have they had?
Will the dog be left alone for long periods?

Arrange a meet and greet

If you’re concerned about how well-behaved your tenants’ pet is, arrange a meet and greet to see what the pet is like in person. Alternatively, ask for a video call with the pet!

There are plenty of lovely spots in Peterborough that are dog friendly and would help you see if they are a responsible pet owner.

This is a great opportunity to see just how well-trained the animal is, and assess how comfortable you are letting the animal stay in your property.

Set boundaries

Before agreeing, consider setting boundaries around the tenant keeping a pet. For example, confirm if you are allowing pet owners to have one pet only, and that any new pets require prior approval.

Agree on terms

Whatever you decide when it comes to agreeing to let your tenants keep a pet in your Peterborough rental property, make sure it’s documented in the terms of your lease.

Include information about any boundaries you set, what responsibilities the tenant has when it comes to cleaning up after the pet in your rental property, and any tenant fees may occur if those standards are not upheld or there is pet damage.

In Summary

Allowing your tenants to keep a pet is ultimately your decision as a landlord. Numerous benefits are available to landlords if they allow pets, but you still need to ensure you’re always protecting yourself and your property.

For more advice on property management or letting your property, our friendly team at PTL Lettings are happy to help. Get in touch today on 01733 555183, or email us at info@ptl-lettings.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions About Becoming a Pet-Friendly Landlord

Can I charge additional rent or fees for tenants with pets?

Landlords are not allowed to charge a ‘fee’ to a tenant who wishes to keep pets or other animals in a rental property. Deposits are capped in England since the introduction of the Tenant Fees Act in 2019. However, permission may be given for pets on the condition that the tenant pays an additional reasonable amount in rent.

Can I charge for professional cleaning at the end of a tenancy with a pet?

Landlords cannot insist on a professional cleaning service at the end of a tenancy as this is a prohibited payment under the Tenant Fees Act legislation, however tenants must return the property in its original condition.

Can I discriminate against certain types or breeds of pets?

It’s advisable to focus on the behaviour and history of individual pets rather than discriminating based on breeds, as breed-specific policies may be subject to legal scrutiny and can be seen as discriminatory.

What steps can I take to protect my property from potential pet-related damage?

Implementing a clear and detailed pet policy, conducting thorough tenant screening, and including specific clauses in the lease regarding pet responsibilities and potential consequences for damage can help protect your property while allowing for responsible pet ownership.

April 18, 2024April 18, 2024

Is Mould In Rented Property A Landlord’s Responsibility?

Over the past couple of decades, rental accommodation in Peterborough has greatly improved, however mould in rented property is still an issue plaguing landlords and tenants alike. One of the biggest problems is that responsibility for preventing mould in the first place lies with both the landlord and the tenant, and that means that the parties blaming each other can end up taking priority over resolving the problem at its cause.

So, if you’re based in Peterborough, are landlords responsible for dealing with mould in rented property? Find out here, as the expert team at PTL lettings have put this helpful guide together for you.

You may also be interested in 8 Things UK Landlords Need To Know

What Causes Mould?

Mould in rented property can have several different causes including penetrating damp, rising damp, and condensation. The most frequently seen reason for mould developing in properties is, undoubtedly, condensation, but luckily, it’s also the easiest cause to address.

It’s trickier to resolve a rising damp problem, but fortunately, it is encountered far more rarely. Usually, this issue is found in older properties, however, new homes may also be affected, especially if they’ve recently had repair works carried out that could have caused damage to the damp proof course.

If your property suffers from rising damp, it’s likely to be your responsibility as the landlord to resolve it, although if the tenants have interfered somehow with the damp proof course, it could be their responsibility to deal with.

If your property suffers from penetrating damp, its source must be found so the issue can be solved. Usually, it will be down to missing roof slates or leaking pipework – issues that are the landlord’s responsibility to rectify.

What Are The Tenant’s Responsibilities With Regard To Mould?

Tenants will usually need to keep any condensation inside the property to a minimum. If a faulty heating system or inadequate insulation is the cause of condensation, the landlord must take responsibility. Otherwise, condensation is something the tenants need to control by ensuring proper ventilation and temperature levels. They should follow these tips to reduce condensation and mould in rented property:

Close the door of the bathroom when bathing or showering and open the window or use the extractor fan afterwards.
Dry laundry outdoors whenever possible or utilise a dehumidifier.
When cooking, cover pans with lids to prevent steam from escaping.
Wipe wet windows down and keep them open for ten minutes each morning.
Make sure furniture is 10cm-15cm away from the external walls to prevent the evolution of a microclimate.

What Are My Responsibilities As A Landlord With Regard To Mould In Rented Property?

If mould is affecting your tenant’s safety or health, or if it has occurred due to a property issue that can be repaired, it’s your responsibility as the landlord to rectify it. Landlords must ensure their property is fit for living in under the terms of the 2018 Homes (Fitness For Human Inhabitation) Act.

Some repairs you may need to carry out to resolve mould issues include:

Repairing broken bathroom or kitchen extractor fans
Fixing a faulty heating system
Resolving guttering issues
Repairing window frames that have rotted
Fixing plumbing leaks
Repairing roof problems
Fixing large cracks in the external walls

This is where the services of a letting agent in Peterborough can help you stay on top of maintenance!

What Next?

If you’re a landlord in Peterborough and you need advice, or a valuation, get in touch with the PTL Lettings team today on 01733 555183 or at info@ptl-lettings.co.uk. We’re looking forward to working with you.

Frequently Asked Questions About Mould In Rented Property

Is mould a landlord’s responsibility?

It is the landlord’s responsibility to fix mould issues caused by structural faults or disrepair. Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 confirms this.

Can I withhold rent for mould?

No! Tenants cannot withhold rent because a landlord has not made necessary repairs.

How to Clean Mould on Walls

Protect your hands with rubber gloves.

Mix one part bleach to four parts water.

Gently scrub the mould.

Wipe away the bleach mixture.

Dry the area well with a soft cloth.

April 11, 2024April 18, 2024

How to Choose a Letting Agent in Peterborough: 7 Questions You Need to Ask

Working out how to choose a letting agent is an important decision. Your property is a valuable asset, and entrusting someone else to manage it for you isn’t something to be taken lightly.

Working with an expert letting agent in Peterborough can help save you time and money. Plus, you can rest assured that you’re managing your property in the right way and leaving yourself less open to risk.

If you’re a landlord thinking about working with a letting agent, we have collated our best tips for you, so that you know exactly how to choose a letting agent in Peterborough. Our vast knowledge of the rental market means that we know all the important questions you should be asking before you commit.

Seven Questions to Ask Letting Agents About Rental Properties

So let’s jump straight in with the seven key questions you must ask any letting agents, especially once you have a rental property in mind.

1. Are You Regulated?

One of the first things you need to check when speaking to a potential letting agent is whether they are registered as part of a government-approved letting agency redress scheme and the national approved letting scheme.

Working with an unregistered letting agent can result in fines for landlords, so it’s always best to check.

PTL Lettings are ARLA Propertymark Accredited, so you know that your rental property will always be in safe hands.

2. Are You Part of a Client Money Protection Scheme?

Just like the previous question, you also want to ensure the agency you choose is part of a client money protection scheme – particularly if they will be handling tenancy deposits and dealing with rent collection and other property management tasks for you.

PTL Lettings protect our clients money – we are members of a government approved deposit scheme.

3. What Are Your Fees?

Of course, asking about fees is a given. It’s a question the PTL lettings team expect to be asked! However, letting agent fees will vary. We deal with every landlord independently to ensure we meet their individual needs.

We offer services from tenant find to full management, so it’s always best to speak with us for a detailed insight into everything we offer.

When enquiring about fees with any letting agent, do make sure you ask about any extra charges you could be liable to pay – not just the standard stuff. A professional letting agent will be completely transparent with these numbers, and that will allow you to compare letting agents, which is crucial.

As a part of our services we can offer all of the following:

Gas Safety Checks
Inspection Services
Fully referenced tenants
Secure Tenancy Deposit Scheme
Selective licensing
Free advice on how to comply with licensing regulations and how to make the home safe to rent.

4. What Marketing Strategies Do You Use?

A good letting agent in Peterborough is always on the hunt for new ways to market their rental properties. Depending on who your target market is, more modern forms of marketing (like blogging and social media) can be highly effective.

Make sure you ask how your letting agent will market your property to see if it’s the right fit for you.

At PTL Lettings, we believe in a rounded approach to marketing. We market all properties on the portals, offer virtual tours and viewings, add regular informative blog content to our website, and you can find us on social media including Facebook, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter). We will be more than happy to discuss our marketing process with you.

5. How Well Do You Know the Local Area?

Naturally, having a local letting agent in Peterborough like PTL Lettings has its benefits! An agency like us that knows the area well can market your rental property to potential tenants much more effectively.

When speaking with agents, ask any questions you may have about the local area and make sure they can answer knowledgeably.

The PTL Lettings team have vast knowledge of the local rental market and with over 35 years of experience in lettings, we are confident in what we do!

6. How Long Does it Take to Fill Vacancies?

We understand that every landlord wants to fill voids as quickly as possible, but finding the right tenant can sometimes take a little time.

Regardless, a good letting agent will have the facts on the average time it takes them to fill vacancies, so make sure you ask for the figures.

Here at PTL Lettings, we are completely transparent with these figures, and you can speak with us about them at anytime.

7. What Are Your Opening Hours?

When your letting agent is available to talk is much more important than you might think. You need someone who can work around your lifestyle and be ready to answer your questions when you have time to speak.

While most letting agents in the local area will have standard opening hours, some may be open or available out of hours, too. The PTL Lettings team are always willing to be available when called upon by our clients.

What Next? Enquire Today

At PTL Lettings, we are your local letting agents in Peterborough. If you’re thinking about working with an agent to help manage your property, our friendly team are happy to answer all your questions.

Call us today on 01733 555183 or email us at info@ptl-lettings.co.uk

Frequently Asked Questions About How To Choose A Letting Agent in Peterborough

What factors should I consider when selecting a letting agent as a landlord?

When choosing a letting agent, consider their reputation, experience, and fees. Look for agents with positive reviews, a proven track record in your local area, and transparent fee structures.

Are there any regulatory requirements I should be aware of when hiring a letting agent in the UK?

Yes, ensure the letting agent is a member of a recognised redress scheme and complies with the law, such as deposit protection regulations. This helps safeguard your interests and those of your tenants.

How can I assess a letting agent’s ability to find suitable tenants for my property?

Evaluate their marketing strategies, tenant screening processes, and vacancy fill rates. A reliable letting agent should have effective advertising methods and thorough tenant vetting procedures to secure quality tenants for your property.

What services do letting agents typically offer, and how do I choose the right level of service for my needs?

Letting agents offer various services, including tenant find, rent collection, and full management. Assess your preferences, time availability, and budget to determine which service level aligns best with your requirements as a landlord.