The Importance of Looking After Rented Property

In the UK currently, an estimated 36% of property is rented, with this figure likely to increase as the cost of home ownership continues to soar. Whilst many of us enjoy the less pressured life of renting, it is still vital that you maintain a high standard within the property when renting. This, amongst other things, will ensure that you can not be charged for any dilapidation costs when you finally relinquish the property.

Whilst not exhaustive, we offer a short guide to maintaining a rented property, in order to ensure that you get the maximum amount of your deposit back, and avoid getting into any negotiation around the tricky subject of dilapidation.

Avoid damp

Damp can be really savage with properties, causing all sorts of issues, like crumbling walls, falling windows and even holes in floors. Depending on where you live and the type of house you have, there may be an issue with damp. For example, coastal towns often have problems with damp more than inner city ones, and new builds use different materials which are better at damp proofing. In any case, there are some small steps which can be taken to avoid exacerbating a damp problem. Use lids when cooking, dry clothes outside or in a tumble drier and open windows a little to avoid condensation.

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Watch your step

If you are lucky enough to have loft access, be very careful when you are up there. Eaves and loft space are notoriously weak and so you must be careful not to overload them. Also make sure you know where it is safe to step, and where to avoid. If you know there is a sensitive area, it is probably best to avoid it altogether.

Clean chimneys

There’s nothing more cosy than the feel of a real fire and if you are fortunate enough to have one at your rented property, then you should make sure you have the chimney swept frequently. This reduces the risk of any kind of fire, which can start due to creosote build up or obstacles such as bird’s nests clogging up the chimney breast.

Essentially, you will feel more peace of mind if you take care of your property as if it was your own, and you could avoid a nasty dispute at the end of your tenancy.