How to Find the Right Tenant in the UK

Finding the ideal tenant can be a laborious process, especially with the responsibilities that come with being a landlord in the UK. You want someone who will pay rent on time, take care of the property, and be a long-term occupant, reducing vacancy periods. As an experienced landlord who has dealt with various types of tenants, I’m sharing practical advice to help you through this process. From prepping your property to conducting thorough background checks, here's how to ensure you attract and select the right tenant.

1. Preparing Your Rental Property

1.1 Understand Your Responsibilities as a Landlord

Being a landlord comes with numerous obligations that must be legally fulfilled to avoid complications. You are responsible for the maintenance and repair of the property, ensuring it remains habitable according to the Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS). This means dealing with issues such as damp, mould, and infestations promptly. Failing to meet these standards can result in fines or legal action, so it’s vital to stay compliant.

You also need to be well-versed in handling deposits. Under the law, tenants' deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme such as the Deposit Protection Service (DPS), MyDeposits, or the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS). Protecting deposits not only builds trust with your tenants but also avoids legal repercussions that can cost you dearly.

Pro-tip: Keep a checklist or use software to track all your landlord responsibilities, from property repairs to regulatory requirements, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.

1.2 Make Your Property Appealing to Potential Tenants

Making your property attractive is key to finding the best tenant. Start with basic repairs and touch-ups to make sure everything is in working order. A fresh coat of paint, professional cleaning, and a well-maintained garden can do wonders. Remember, first impressions matter!

Furnishing the property can also make it more appealing. Depending on your target market, you might want to offer a fully-furnished, part-furnished, or unfurnished home. For example, young professionals in city centres may prefer a furnished apartment, while families might want space for their own furniture.

Pro-tip: Stage your property for viewings with simple, neutral décor that makes it easier for potential tenants to imagine themselves living there. Dressing beds with duvets, pillows and cushions can transform photos and make the difference between receiving an enquiry and not. 

1.3 Ensure Your Property Complies with UK Safety Regulations

Safety is a non-negotiable aspect of renting out property in the UK. If you have gas, make sure you obtain a Gas Safety Certificate annually and have all gas appliances checked by a registered engineer. Additionally, it's mandatory to have an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) to confirm the property's electrical systems are safe that is dated within 5 years. 

Fire safety must also be part of your checklist. Install smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide detectors in rooms with solid fuel appliances. Providing fire extinguishers and visible exit routes can further assure your tenants of their safety.

Pro-tip: Keep a file of all your safety certificates and inspection reports. Make sure you provide the necessary copies to tenants at the start of each tenancy and renewal to ensure you remain compliant and any possession proceedings are accepted by the courts.

2. Screening and Selecting Tenants

2.1 Advertise Your Property Effectively

Use the right platforms: It’s crucial to select the right platforms to advertise your property. Popular portals like Rightmove, Zoopla, and Gumtree can increase the visibility of your listing. Create an appealing and accurate ad that highlights the best features of your property. Include high-quality photos, detailed descriptions, and key amenities to attract serious inquiries.

Write a compelling advertisement: Your advertisement should be concise but informative. Mention local amenities, public transport links, and any recent renovations. Use bullet points to highlight key features such as:

Newly refurbished kitchen

Walking distance to the train station

Close proximity to schools and parks

Secure, off-street parking

En-suite bathrooms

Pro-tip: Post your listing on multiple platforms for broader reach.

2.2 Conducting Viewings: The First Step in Tenant Selection

Schedule convenient times: Flexible viewing times can result in a higher turnout. Weekends and evenings are often best, as most people are free then. Group viewings can save time and create a sense of competition among prospective tenants. During the viewing, try to get a sense of the tenant's lifestyle and expectations.

Prepare for questions: Be ready to answer specific questions about the property and the lease terms. Frequently asked questions include:

Is the property furnished or unfurnished?

Are utilities included?

What is the length of the lease?

Are pets allowed?

What is the deposit amount?

Pro-tip: Create a printed information sheet with answers to common questions and key property details to hand out during viewings.

2.3 Performing Background and Reference Checks

Verify identity and employment: Once you have interested tenants, the next step is to perform background checks. Obtain copies of their ID (passport or driver’s licence) and proof of income (payslips or bank statements). These documents will help you verify their ability to pay rent on time.

Check references: Contact previous landlords for references. Key questions to ask include:

Did the tenant pay rent on time?

Was the property well looked after?

Would you rent to this tenant again? Utilising services like Experian or Homelet can streamline credit checks and ensure you receive reliable, comprehensive information about potential tenants.

To learn more about our expert screening services, check out Procuro.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to choose the right tenant in the UK?

Choose the right tenant by performing thorough background checks, verifying their employment and income, and checking references from previous landlords. Meeting them in person during viewings is also crucial to get a sense of their reliability and compatibility with your property.

What is the right to a tenant in the UK?

Tenants in the UK have the right to live in a property that is safe and in good condition, the right to have their deposit protected, and the right to be protected from unfair eviction and unfair rent. They also have the right to state their case and be heard.

How to find tenants in the UK?

To find tenants in the UK, advertise your property on popular listing sites like Rightmove, Zoopla, and Gumtree. Use social media and word of mouth, and consider posting in local community groups. High-quality photos and detailed descriptions improve your chances of attracting suitable tenants.

How do estate agents pick tenants?

Estate agents pick tenants by conducting viewings, verifying identities and employment, checking references from previous landlords, and assessing the tenant's ability to pay rent. They may also perform credit checks and use tenancy screening services to ensure a comprehensive evaluation.