20th February 2012
Installing fire alarms, changing the locks, painting over those suspicious damp patches - there's a lot for landlords to consider before they hand their keys over to a new tenant.
And with tougher government energy standards set to be introduced in 2018 preventing landlords from renting out properties with the worst energy ratings, landlords need to consider the green credentials of their properties before they lease them.
Meanwhile one expert has warned landlords that they need to think about improving their assets now in anticipation of the changes.
"It's a significant challenge," said the British Property Federation's Ian Fletcher. "The government has proposed that from 2018, the F and G rated properties on an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) will be prevented from being rented out.
"2018 might sound like a long way off but in terms of ensuring that businesses are using the best opportunities to do works, it is something they need to start thinking about now."
With a DTZ report this week finding that more than 40 per cent of commercial buildings in the UK are in danger of falling short of the governments tough new energy standards, landlords need to start thinking about overhauling their properties.
And it's not just double glazing and insulation that needs to be considered - fixtures such as electric radiators and Robus lighting need to be installed before rental properties will tick the appropriate boxes.
However, the expert warned the timing of large-scale builds and refurbishments need to be carefully considered, especially with tenants staying in properties on average longer than before the recession.
"If you have to do significant works, then it is better to do it in a period where you perhaps have a void in the property when it is not being let out," said Mr Fletcher. "Careful planning is something that the possessors should be thinking about in terms of this particular target."
Back to DIY and Home Furnishing
News