Year end

Checklist

Here is a general list of what needs to be done at the end of the contract:

1. Once the property is void, you (or someone on your behalf) should visit to check the state of the property.

2. Note any improvement/ maintenance/ damage issues and any cleaning requirements.

3. If you feel there is something the students should be held responsible for (e.g. damage beyond fair wear and tear, very poor cleaning), please see the Damages page for how to proceed. 

4.  Get in touch to let us know if you need any help with maintenance issues, want us to organise cleaning, rubbish collection or other contractor visits. With the volume of information that we have coming in, it’s easiest for us to keep track via email, but general discussions are probably best on the phone. If you want a cleaning visit, please provide a clear written specification of the work so we don’t have disputes over charging.

5. We will visit to update notices and check keys. You might want to leave your own note for incoming tenants, maybe just introducing yourself, giving some handy info or maybe suggest setting up a household WhatsApp group with you.

6. Once all the necessary works are complete, please ensure that the property is ready for letting. This will be common sense stuff, but essentially that the property is clean, tidy and in good maintenance order- the ‘would I be happy to move in?’ check. Remember to check things like the vacuum cleaner, shower, oven, boiler, locks etc. are working.

7. Take a record of meter readings. It is a good idea to also write these down for incoming tenants to use if they need to open their own accounts (sometimes they delay contacting providers and use the wrong readings).

8. Make sure all water outlets are run for a couple of minutes and shower heads are descaled within a week before occupation to mitigate legionella risks.

9. Update your inventory and send it to us. We’ll share this with the students for comments.

10. Replace all mattress protectors, or hot-wash them if they are in good condition.

11. Make sure shower curtains/ bath mats etc are washed or replaced. Check for and resolve any remaining details miscelaneous, like lightbulbs and vacuum bags.

12. Confirm to us when your property is all ready to go, and of any bits and pieces that may be outstanding.

Other things to consider

• Take an objective look at the condition of the property- or maybe even ask someone unfamiliar with the property to. What needs updating and improving?

• This is the ideal time to update/ create a long term plan for cyclical and planned works. If you have any major works in mind, now is the time to plan them out. Maybe this will have an impact on upcoming tenancy lengths if you need more time?

• Review security at the property. For instance, has a hedge grown to allow an access point to be hidden from view?

• Take a look at your EPC. Are there any suggested improvements listed that you can undertake?

• Check our list of common safety issues to make sure you are confident they are all under control

• Make sure any gardens are not only under control, but are set up to remain so for the upcoming tenancy (we don't expect tenants to be undertaking any more than basic grass cutting, still less tree surgery!)

• Are there enough/ correct bins? Have some taken themselves on a journey down the street and need to be brought home?

• If you have any gas or electric key meters, please consider getting them replaced with a billed service or smart meters

• Make sure all hinges and locks work smoothly. They may need a squirt of lubricant to keep them maintained, or even need replacing altogether. This will maintain their lifespan, keep the property secure and reduce those 3am-lock-out situations.

• Don't forget the shed. A dilapidated shed can pose a danger to tenants from falling glass, exposed nails, etc.

• Check pathways, walls and external areas are safe. Maybe a delivery driver could trip and make a claim against you?