Whether due to misbehaviour or a need to reclaim the property, many landlords end up taking back their rental units. Sometimes tenants leave voluntarily, and sometimes it requires court action. Either way, here are the practical steps to follow once the tenant has vacated.
1. Inspect the Property
It’s crucial to inspect the property as soon as possible. Whether you do it yourself or have someone you trust handle it, follow these steps:
- Turn off any running taps.
- Decide if you need to shut off the water completely.
- Set the boiler to a low temperature to prevent pipes from freezing. Avoid heating the property to 20 degrees every day.
- If the boiler separates hot water and heating, consider turning off the hot water if no one is living there.
- Take meter readings to record electricity and gas usage while the property is empty.
- Ensure all plugs and appliances are off, especially the fridge/freezer.
- Check that all windows and doors are locked.
- Lock the back gate, shed, and garage. Verify that the shed and garage are empty.
2. Change the Locks
Changing the locks is a wise investment, even if the tenants left voluntarily. Some doors may have interior bolts that secure them, but you should still replace the locks. Tenants might have kept spare keys or given them to others, and you don’t want unauthorized people entering the property.
If you plan to sell the property, squatters could delay the sale and potentially breach your sale contract.
3. Review Your Insurance
If your property will remain empty for a long period, check your insurance policy. Many policies have conditions for vacant properties or may not cover you at all. Contact your insurance company or broker to ensure you have the appropriate coverage. Empty property insurance may be necessary, and you must adhere to any specific requirements to keep your insurance valid.
4. Visit Regularly
Regular visits are essential to maintain your investment. Ensure that the property’s exterior is in good condition. An accumulation of mail or an unkept garden can signal that the property is empty.
Consider using timers for lights to make the property appear occupied, or install Wi-Fi-enabled light bulbs to control lighting remotely.
If you’re selling, ensure the property remains vacant and free of any belongings. You must provide vacant possession, meaning no one should be occupying or storing items in the property unless otherwise negotiated.
Needing legal advice?
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