Expert Advice | Balfours
Protecting your property & income

Landlord Information

An empty property not only means lost rental income, but it can also become a liability. At Balfours, our priority is to find a reliable tenant for your property as quickly as possible – someone who will care for your investment and pay a fair market rent.

We understand that many clients prefer not to manage the details of residential lettings themselves. That’s why we offer a comprehensive property management service, keeping you informed and fully compliant with changing regulations.

FAQs

Not sure how it all works?

You’re not alone. Here are the questions we hear most often, with simple answers to help you out.

Our transparent fee structure is outlined in the following documents:

Landlord Fees

Landlord Fees Schedule

Before renting out your property, you must secure relevant consents, which may include:

  • Mortgage Consent: If you have a mortgage, you need formal consent from your lender.

  • Insurance: As property owner, you are responsible for insuring the building. Discuss your plans with your insurer, and ensure your policy covers fittings, fixtures, and floor coverings.

  • Leasehold Properties: If your property is leasehold, permission may be required from the management company or freeholder. Please review your head lease for any particular clauses and provide us with a copy, so we can ensure the tenancy agreement is fully compliant.

If you reside outside the UK for at least six months in any tax year, you are required to register with HMRC as a Non-Resident Landlord. Each named landlord on the property will need to apply separately. Without the appropriate NRL certificate(s), we must deduct basic rate tax from your rental income and forward it to HMRC.

If you process personal data as a landlord—such as using a phone, computer, or tablet—you typically need to register with the ICO. While some exemptions exist, most landlords will need to register.

Prior to letting, your property must comply with current safety legislation. At Balfours, we are happy to advise and assist you. The following certifications and checks are typically required:

  • Furnishings meeting current fire regulations

  • Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)

  • Gas Safety Record (where applicable)

  • Portable Appliance (PAT) Testing for electrical items

  • Legionella Risk Assessment

  • Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

  • Oil Boiler Certificate (if relevant)

  • Chimney Sweep Certificate (if applicable)

  • Smoke and Carbon Monoxide alarm compliance