Welcome to our Landlord FAQ section, designed to address common queries and provide valuable insights for landlords.

How do I know I am dealing with a reputable agent?

To offer you complete reassurance that you are dealing with a reputable agent, we are members of the Safeagent, The Property Ombudsman and the Information Commissioner’s Office allowing you confidence that our services are fully regulated and that all client money is fully protected.

How does the letting process work?

Our letting process involves a valuation of your property together with advice on preparing it to let, marketing, accompanied viewings, tenant referencing, drawing up of tenancy agreements and collection of initial monies. We handle the entire process, ensuring a seamless experience for landlords.

What services do you offer to landlords?

We will tailor our service to meet your individual requirements, whether you are a first-time landlord with one property or an experienced investor with a portfolio of properties. We offer a range of options from fully managed to let only. Please contact us to discuss which service will best suit your situation.

Why should I use a managing agent?

Choosing a fully managed service allows you to completely relax as we will take care of everything for you. This service is ideal if you have limited spare time, live abroad or simply want to ensure that your property is being looked after by trusted, qualified professionals.

What fees are associated with your services?

Our fees vary based on the services chosen. We are transparent about all our fees, including marketing, letting only, and ongoing management fees.

How are tenants referenced?

Our tenant referencing process is carried out by Goodlord and involves stringent background checks, rental history verification, credit checks, and employment verification to ensure reliable and responsible tenants.

What is the Right to Rent?

The Right to Rent scheme, helps to make sure that people renting property in the UK have a legal right to be here. We will check all documentation prior to a let commencing to ensure that your tenants have the Right to Rent.

Do I need an inventory?

It is essential that an accurate Inventory and Schedule of Condition is drawn up and agreed at the start of each tenancy. This will reduce the likelihood of a dispute at the end of the tenancy and will help to ensure that your property is returned as it was handed over. This document will list all of the items at the property together with a comment on their condition and will be supported by time and date-stamped photos.

What deposit will be collected?

We will collect a deposit equivalent to five weeks’ rent and this will be held in accordance with Tenancy Deposit Regulations.

Reposit is an alternative to the traditional cash deposit which offers landlords more protection and is a great value option for tenants. Please contact us for more information.

How do you handle property maintenance?

We have an inhouse maintenance manager who can carry out day-to-day repairs and we use a network of reliable contractors to promptly address any other maintenance issues reported to us. Landlords are kept informed about repairs, and we handle the coordination on their behalf including payment of invoices from rents received.

What if the tenant doesn't pay?

We will collect rent from your tenants. Typically this is monthly and by standing order. The payment will be transferred to your chosen account, less any fees or expenses due for the period, and you will receive a simple, clear statement from us detailing all the transactions relating to your property.

We also manage any rent arrears and will advise you of late payments and the appropriate course of action should a tenant fall behind with their rent. We can offer you rental protection to give you complete peace of mind.

What safety requirements will I be responsible for?

We ensure our team are fully trained to understand the latest legislation so that you have peace of mind that your property is fully compliant with the latest safety regulations including Gas Safety, Fire Safety, Electrical Safety, Carbon Monoxide and Legionnaires amongst others.

What should I do if my property is leasehold?

The managing agents or freeholders must be advised as a change in the type of occupancy may affect the buildings insurance. You should obtain the freeholders or managing agents consent prior to letting and advise us of any restrictions within the head lease which your tenant should be aware of.

What will my outgoings be?

Your outgoings will usually include:

• mortgage
• buildings and contents insurance (as a minimum)
• repairs to the property
• managing agent’s fees
• ground rent and service charges (if leasehold)
• utilities and services when the property is empty.

Who will be responsible for the utilities?

The tenantis responsible for the utilities, unless you decide to include any of them in the rent. If this is the case, it will need to be clearly stated on the marketing details and in the tenancy agreement.

What about tax?

You will be taxed on income generated from your rental property. The amount you pay will depend on your individual circumstances. Consider getting extra advice from an accountant so you are clear as to your tax liabilities.

If you are overseas for more than six months in any tax year, you will be classed as a non-resident landlord for tax purposes and will be required to apply to HMRC. If no exemption letter is provided to us, then legislation requires that we deduct tax at the basic rate and pay it over to HMRC. Please note that where there are joint landlords an exemption is required for each landlord.

Do I need to tell my mortgage company?

Yes. You will need to get permission from your mortgage company before you can let your property.

Do I need insurance?

Yes. You should inform your insurance company that you intend to let your property otherwise you may find that your policy is invalid. You should also update your insurance company in accordance with their requirements if your property is going to be empty.

Why choose Evolve?

Selecting the right agent is essential for the smooth management of your property and you need to feel confident that the team you work with will be focused on you and your property.

We want to be different, and we understand that every property and landlord is different too.

We will tailor our service to meet your individual requirements, whether you are a first-time landlord with one property or an experienced investor with a portfolio of properties.

Above all, we want you to enjoy the experience of working with us.