If you are renting out a property, and particularly if the plan is to do this over an extended period of time, there are several points of upkeep well worth considering:
Boiler & Heating- as well as the mandatory annual Gas safety certificate it is well worth having this serviced on a regular basis. Some do it annually but you should definitely consider it at least once every 2-3 years.
Plumbing, Drains & Gutters- If you have a house it is recommended that at least once a year (particularly if near any trees) you have all gutters and external drains cleared of all debris. For internal plumbing, it is becoming more commonplace in blocks of flats that Leaseholders are required to have an annual plumbing inspection. This is no bad thing and can help avoid major leaks and damage to multiple properties. It is also worth flushing all drains and toilets with some sort of drain cleaner after each tenancy to help avoid the build up of grease and waste in the pipes (however do follow instructions and DO NOT leave a caustic cleaner sitting in plastic pipes for weeks- you will return to a nightmare!!).
Mastik & Sealants- inspect these annually if you can. If in doubt (or looking mouldy) re-do them now! This is cheap to do, keeps bathrooms & kitchens looking fresh and neat and helps avoid minor leaks.
Garden- Despite Tenants best intentions, it is incredibly rare that these are maintained properly. It is well worth having a gardener attend the property at least once (preferably twice though) and give everything the once over ensuring weeds are removed and plants/trees pruned effectively.
Carpets- The cleanliness of carpets on return of a property is a cause for numerous disputes. Nip this in the bud! Have all carpets and soft furnishings professionally steam cleaned before your first tenancy and require in the contract that all tenants do this at the end of theirs and provide a receipt as proof. This way your tenants get theirs in nice clean condition and you know you will get it back that way.
Painting- you should be prepared to have at the very least the walls (if not ceilings and woodwork too) re-painted every 3-5 years. Whoever you use (or if you do it yourself) make sure you use good quality paint. It looks better and is far more durable.
Consumables- if you provide, bedding, linen, pots, pans, etc be prepared to replace these on almost a tenancy by tenancy basis. Where possible we recommend you do not offer this from the start- you can always provide it if requested.
This list should help you keep your property in tip-top condition helping you get maximum rent with minimum voids. Being proactive will also help avoid costly maintenance issues and possible insurance claims and damage liability.
