Beginners help for putting flat on rent

Arjy

We've recently bought a new house, and our finances have allowed us to keep hold of the flat we previously lived in.

We've only just decided we should keep it, and rent it out. But so far, other than discussions, we haven't done anything about this. What is it exactly i need to do, to make the property habitable for tennants.

I am aware of the legal issues with a solicitor, but in terms of making the flat habitable ... what certificates do i need? I have a gas certificate, but so far have been unable to locate an electric one. Will i need those?

What about energy? Will i have to install pre paid meters, and at what cost?

Thanks for your help.

BitterAndTwisted

You don't need any certs for the electricity it just has to be safe. And no, you don't need to install pre-paid meters, the accounts with the utility suppliers will need to be closed with the final meter readings. They then become the responsibility of the in-going tenant.

Please join a landlords association if you haven't already. Have you drawn up a business-plan to test whether this will be a decent investment and have you factored in the tax-liability on the rental-income?

Yorkie1

Assuming the flat is leasehold, does the main lease allow you to sub-let?