How to rent out your property

1. Check that you can rent out the property

Before spending money on preparing or advertising the property, check that you have permission to let it.

• Mortgage: if you have a residential mortgage, ask your lender whether you need consent to let or a different mortgage product.
• Insurance: check that your policy covers letting to tenants. Ordinary owner-occupier cover may not be sufficient.
• Leasehold property: review your lease and check whether freeholder consent or other conditions apply.
• Local rules: check whether a landlord registration, property licence or HMO licence is required.

Sorting these issues out early can help you avoid delays and unexpected costs later.

2. Work out your costs and set the rent

Research similar rental properties in the same neighbourhood before deciding how much to charge. Compare properties with similar numbers of bedrooms, condition, furnishing and access to local amenities.

Do not base your decision on the advertised rent alone. Think about the costs you will need to cover throughout the tenancy.

Allow for unexpected repairs and periods when the property may be empty. Rental income is not the same as profit, and tax treatment depends on your circumstances.

3. Prepare the property for tenants

A clean, well-maintained property is easier to present to prospective tenants and helps set expectations from the outset.

• Deal with obvious repairs and maintenance issues.
• Check doors, windows, locks and supplied appliances.
• Make sure heating, hot water and essential facilities work.
• Clean the property and remove unnecessary clutter.
• Decide whether to let it furnished or unfurnished.
• Prepare clear, accurate photographs of the rooms and exterior.

Do not use photographs or descriptions that hide significant defects or misrepresent the property. An accurate listing helps prospective tenants make an informed decision.

4. Check your landlord legal requirements

You remain responsible for legal compliance whether you use an agent or manage the property yourself. Requirements vary by jurisdiction, property type and tenancy.

Safety and property standards

Depending on the property and applicable rules, you may need gas safety checks, electrical safety inspections, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, an Energy Performance Certificate and any required licence.

Tenant checks and documentation

Understand the checks you must carry out, the information you must give tenants, deposit protection requirements and the tenancy terms that apply. Keep copies of relevant records and make sure documents are current.

Important changes for landlords in England

The Renters' Rights Act changes took effect in England on 1 May 2026. They include changes to tenancy arrangements, possession rules and how properties are advertised. For example, landlords must advertise an asking rent and cannot encourage or accept offers above it. Make sure you understand the current requirements before agreeing a tenancy.

Start with the official GOV.UK guide to renting out a property and the Renters' Rights Act guidance for landlords in England. If your property is in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, consult the relevant national guidance instead.

5. Advertise your rental property

Once the property is ready and you understand the relevant requirements, create an advert that gives prospective tenants the information they need.

A useful rental listing should include:

• The asking rent and any relevant payment information
• Property type and number of bedrooms and bathrooms
• Location and useful nearby amenities
• Furnishing, parking and outdoor space details
• Availability and relevant property features
• Good-quality photographs and an accurate description

Be clear about what is included in the rent, such as bills or parking, and avoid making promises you cannot fulfil. Check advertising and discrimination rules that apply to your property and location.

6. Arrange viewings and assess applicants

Respond promptly to enquiries and arrange viewings at suitable times. Be ready to answer questions about the property, the rent, local facilities and how you intend to manage the tenancy.

When assessing applicants, use a consistent and lawful process. Referencing, affordability checks and suitable previous-landlord references may help you make an informed decision. Follow the required Right to Rent process in England and comply with applicable anti-discrimination rules.

Keep records of applications and decisions. Do not assume that a particular applicant is unsuitable based on stereotypes or protected characteristics.

7. Set up the tenancy properly

Once you have selected a tenant, make sure the tenancy is set up in line with the law that applies to your property. Do not rely on an old agreement without checking that it is still suitable.

• Use appropriate, up-to-date tenancy documentation.
• Provide the required information about the tenancy.
• Comply with deposit protection rules where they apply.
• Give the tenant the required safety and property documents.
• Record the property's condition and the items supplied.
• Agree how rent, repairs and day-to-day communication will work.

In England, most private residential tenancies are now assured periodic tenancies under the changes effective from May 2026. Check the current official guidance for the rules that apply to your specific arrangement.

8. Manage your property during the tenancy

Finding a tenant is only the beginning. You need a plan for maintaining the property, responding to issues and keeping appropriate records throughout the tenancy.

• Keep track of rent payments and any arrears.
• Respond to repair requests and deal with hazards promptly.
• Arrange required inspections and renewals of safety checks.
• Keep records of communications, repairs and expenses.
• Follow the legal rules for access, rent changes and possession.
• Keep your landlord insurance and relevant documentation current.

If you cannot reliably handle these responsibilities yourself, consider paying a suitable professional to help with specific tasks or manage the property.