Renting my house out - whole house or rooms? Private or agent?

HarriettPotter

Hi all

I intend to rent my house out in the next few months but would appreciate some advice on what to do. I do know some pros and cons but hearing people state the obvious is very helpful sometimes as I am in a total quandary!

I need to decide whether to rent the house as a whole or as rooms. The house is large and has 3 double bedrooms so I anticipate I would get more rental income this way. However, are there things I need to do if I am renting rooms in terms of legal requirements? Locks on doors etc?

Secondly I am unsure as to whether to rent privately or through an agent. I have not heard a good word about agents but I thought I might use their introductory service to get me the tenants and credit score them then manage it myself.

Be grateful for any insight/experience/info etc that would help me make my decision...

HP

clutton_2

phone your local council Environmental health and tell them of your plans. They may well decide that you will be operating a HMO (House in multiple occoupation) - there is a whole raft of new legislation about all this as laid down by the Housing Act 2004. If it is three storeys high, including mezzanine storey, this makes it more difficult and more expensive. Agents will always know a great deal more than you if you are new to renting. Choose an agent who is a member of a professional body such as ARLA

lynzpower

There are a host of legal requirements when renting your house out. One thing you must ensure is that your gas system is safe and certified.

barnaby-bear

HarriettPotter wrote:

Hi all

I intend to rent my house out in the next few months but would appreciate some advice on what to do. I do know some pros and cons but hearing people state the obvious is very helpful sometimes as I am in a total quandary!

I need to decide whether to rent the house as a whole or as rooms. The house is large and has 3 double bedrooms so I anticipate I would get more rental income this way. However, are there things I need to do if I am renting rooms in terms of legal requirements? Locks on doors etc?

Secondly I am unsure as to whether to rent privately or through an agent. I have not heard a good word about agents but I thought I might use their introductory service to get me the tenants and credit score them then manage it myself.

Be grateful for any insight/experience/info etc that would help me make my decision...

HP

Rented whole to single household i.e. family will be exempt from HMO modifications and licencing. Otherwise it's not locks but the mains linked fire alarms, firedoors and basins in every room.

HarriettPotter

The house is just 2 storeys and is a very regular 3 bed terraced home! Ok I will go look around for some of the info but from what you are telling me, a whole house rent out sounds way easier...

clutton_2

join National landlords association (joining fee tax deductible) this will give you valuable info re how to be a landlord. i would use an agent for the first 6 months then carefully consider if you want the hassle of being a landlord !