Starting out as a Landlord? Here’s what you need to know
Thinking of letting out your property for the first time? It’s an exciting opportunity, but it can also feel overwhelming. Whether you’re renting out a single house or building a small portfolio, here are the key things every new landlord in the UK should know.
Understand your legal responsibilities
As a landlord, you have legal obligations. You must:
Provide a safe property (gas safety, electrical safety certificates).
Install smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
Conduct Right to Rent checks.
Tip
Keep copies of certificates. Many tenants now ask to see them, and you could face fines without them.
2. Most UK landlords use an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST).
This sets out
How long the tenancy lasts.
How much rent is due and when.
Rules about notice.
3. Get the right insurance
Standard home insurance often won’t cover renting. You would want
Landlord insurance (buildings, contents if furnished).
Liability cover (in case a tenant is injured).
Loss of rent cover (optional).
Specialist landlord insurance is recommended and often required by buy-to-let lenders.
4. Set the right rent
Research what similar properties in your area are charging. Too high = few enquiries. Too low = lost income.
Use sites like Rightmove, Zoopla.
Talk to local letting agents.
Factor in condition and location.
5. Consider using a letting agent
Letting agents can help with
Marketing your property.
Tenant referencing.
Drafting contracts.
Managing maintenance and rent collection.
At Infinitus Delta, we market your property, vet tenants, and handle all legal paperwork with solicitor-drafted contracts for full compliance.
6. Understand deposits and deposits schemes
You can ask for a security deposit (up to 5 weeks’ rent).
Must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days.
Provide the Prescribed Information to the tenant.
This is a legal requirement in England and Wales.)
7. Plan for maintenance and repairs
You’re legally responsible for structure, plumbing, heating.
Regular maintenance avoids big bills later.
Budget for 10–15% of annual rent for upkeep.
Be prepared for void periods
Even the best property won’t always be occupied 100% of the time.
Budget for gaps between tenants.
Keep your property well-presented to reduce voids.
Learn About Taxes
Rental income is taxable.
You will need to
Declare it on your Self Assessment tax return.
Deduct allowable expenses (repairs, agent fees, insurance).
Understand mortgage interest rules (limited relief under Section 24).
Always check with an accountant for personal advice.
At Infinitus Delta, we handle everything from marketing your property and thoroughly referencing tenants to managing all the paperwork. We use solicitor-drafted contracts and make sure all documents are accurate and up to date, so you’re always protected and never at risk of being unable to serve notice due to missing compliance.
📞 01226 123 456
📧 info@infinitusdelta.com
We’re here to help you let, vet, and stay legally compliant.