Checklist for checking out: Leaving your rental property

So you’ve just handed your notice to leave your rental property. What's next, you might be asking? (If you're not asking that, perhaps you should be). Now that we've received your written 30-day notice (either handing it in in person in our office, by post or by email) you will need to ensure that you leave the property in the best possible condition. This not only benefits the landlord and future tenants, but yourself too - as leaving a property dirty or damaged could result in deductions from your deposit.

There are a few essential steps to ensure a smooth conclusion to your tenancy. Here at Ultralets, we're dedicated to supporting you throughout the process. Let's take a look at some of the most crucial things that you can do

Check your inventory: Remember the detailed inventory report you signed upon commencing your tenancy? This document serves as a valuable reference point, outlining the property's condition at the start of your tenancy. By revisiting it, you can restore the property to the condition it was in at the beginning.
A blank canvas: Remove all personal belongings, including any furniture not part of the original inventory. If you received permission for any modifications, such as painting a room, ensure it is returned to the original colour scheme as documented in the inventory.
Addressing minor repairs: Normal wear and tear is to be expected throughout a tenancy. However, if there are any minor repairs required, such as patching small holes in walls, it's best to address them before you leave the property.
Don't forget outdoors: If you have a garden or yard (front and/or back), make sure it is clean and tidy and free from waste/rubbish.
End-of-tenancy cleaning: A sparkling clean property brings a positive end to your tenancy. Consider engaging a professional cleaning service or undertake a thorough cleaning yourself, ensuring all rooms and areas are given some TLC.

The final formalities

Utility disconnection and meter readings: Inform all utility companies of your move-out date and provide accurate meter readings to ensure final bills are correctly calculated.
Key return: Return all sets of keys to our office, including any duplicates made during your tenancy. Please contact us immediately at 01482 562 562 or email us if you are unable to return the keys on the agreed date.
- It is important to note that if you are unable to return the keys on the agreed date, you will be liable for the rent and utilities up to the date of key handover.

Upon receiving the keys and conducting a final inspection, your landlord will have 10 working days to decide if any deductions are necessary from your deposit. You will then be contacted directly by the deposit protection service to outline the next steps and your rights in the process.

Deductions could be made as a result of:

Poor cleanliness
Damage to the property
Removal of personal property / furnishings
Unauthorised decoration (or authorised decoration not returned to the original state)
Arrears

One of the significant advantages of renting through a reputable agent, such as Ultralets, is the utilisation of a government-backed deposit protection scheme. This scheme offers an additional layer of security for your deposit and provides access to a free, independent, mediation service in the event of any disagreements regarding deductions.

Our primary objective is to facilitate a smooth and hassle-free deposit return. at every opportunity. However, if your landlord proposes deductions, the deposit protection service will handle all communication. It's crucial that you carefully review all correspondence and respond within the allotted timeframe.

You will be given comprehensive advice on the next step as well as a period of time to make your decision as to whether you wish to accept, counter offer and dispute the deductions requested. Once you have made a decision in relation to any deductions requested, this often cannot be changed or altered in anyway.

Should an agreement regarding the deposit remain unreachable an independent adjudication process can be initiated by yourself through the relevant deposit protection scheme. The deposit protection company will meticulously review all submitted evidence before reaching a final and non-disputable decision.

We understand that navigating the end of a tenancy can raise questions. Our dedicated team is readily available to assist you throughout the process. Feel free to start up a Live Chat with our Team if you require any clarification or guidance concerning property preparation or the deposit process.

Posted By

Sophie Ombler