Frequently Asked Questions for Landlords
Managing a rental property can come with plenty of questions. Whether you’re a first-time landlord, already managing a property or considering changing agents, we’ve answered some of the questions we hear most often.
If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, our team is happy to discuss your requirements.
Why should I use Boulevard Lettings & Estates to manage my property?
At Boulevard Lettings & Estates, we take the day-to-day work out of renting and managing your property. From finding and referencing tenants to rent collection, maintenance and ongoing management, our aim is to make being a landlord as straightforward as possible.
What areas do you cover?
We specialise in Luton and surrounding areas, including properties across LU1, LU2, LU3, Stopsley, Dunstable, Leagrave, bury park and sundon park.
How much do you charge for property management?
Our full property management service is available from 8% of the monthly rent. Please contact us for a tailored quotation based on your property and requirements.
What does your property management service include?
Our management service can include tenant referencing, tenancy administration, rent collection, dealing with maintenance issues, communication with tenants, property inspections and support throughout the tenancy.
Do you offer a tenant-find-only service?
Yes. If you prefer to manage the property yourself after finding a tenant, we can provide a tenant-find service. Contact us to discuss your requirements and pricing.
How do you find tenants?
We market properties professionally across relevant property portals such as zoopla, onthemarket and our own marketing channels, arrange viewings and handle enquiries before progressing suitable applicants through the referencing process.
How quickly can you let my property?
This depends on factors such as location, condition, asking rent, demand and availability. We will provide honest advice on rental value and marketing strategy to help attract suitable tenants.
How do you decide the rental value?
We consider local market conditions, comparable properties, property condition, location, size, specification and current tenant demand before recommending an asking rent.
Do you provide rental valuations?
Yes. Contact Boulevard Lettings & Estates to arrange a rental valuation for your property.
How do you market my property?
Do you conduct viewings?
Yes. Depending on the service selected, we can arrange and conduct property viewings with prospective tenants.
How do you reference tenants?
Applicants are subject to appropriate referencing and affordability checks. Depending on the circumstances, checks can include identity, Right to Rent, income, employment and previous rental information.
How do you collect rent?
For fully managed properties, we collect rent from tenants and account for it to the landlord in accordance with the agreed management arrangements.
What happens if my tenant doesn’t pay the rent?
We will communicate with the tenant, monitor arrears and follow the appropriate procedures. Where necessary, we can advise the landlord on the next steps and relevant legal processes.
How do you deal with maintenance and repairs?
Tenants can report maintenance issues to us. We assess the issue, communicate with the tenant and landlord where appropriate, and arrange suitable contractors for authorised works.
Do you have contractors?
We work with suitable contractors and tradespeople for property maintenance and repairs. Landlords can discuss their preferred contractors with us.
Do you inspect managed properties?
Property inspections form part of our management service. The frequency and nature of inspections will depend on the property, tenancy and agreed management arrangements.
Do you provide inventories?
Yes. We can arrange detailed inventories with photographs before a tenant moves into the property.
How much does an inventory cost?
What legal and safety requirements apply to rental properties?
Landlords have a number of legal and safety responsibilities. These can include requirements relating to gas safety, electrical safety, energy performance, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, deposits, licensing and other applicable legislation.
Can you help with property compliance?
We can help landlords understand and arrange relevant property compliance requirements and can coordinate appropriate contractors where required.
Can you help with licensing in Luton?
Yes. If your property is located within an area subject to licensing requirements, we can help you understand what you need to consider and point you towards the relevant Luton Borough Council requirements.
Can you manage my property if I live outside Luton?
Yes. We can manage properties for landlords who live outside the local area, subject to the property and management requirements.
What happens when a tenancy comes to an end?
We can assist with the tenancy end process, including communication with the tenant, check-out arrangements, inspection, deposit-related procedures and re-letting where appropriate.
Can you deal with tenant issues on my behalf?
Yes. One of the advantages of full management is having a professional point of contact between the landlord and tenant for day-to-day tenancy matters.
How will I receive updates about my property?
We keep landlords informed about important matters affecting their property and tenancy. The exact communication and reporting arrangements will depend on your management package.
Can you manage multiple properties?
Yes. We work with landlords who have individual properties as well as landlords with multiple properties.
Can you help me maximise my rental income?
We can provide advice based on local rental demand, comparable properties and the condition and specification of your property. Our aim is to help you make informed decisions about your rental property.
How do I get started?
Still Have Questions?
If you couldn’t find the answer you’re looking for, speak to our team about your property and landlord requirements. Whether you’re a new landlord, already have a rental property or are considering switching agents, we’re here to help.