Becoming a landlord can be a rewarding, but it also comes with a lot of responsibilities. When a tenant moves into one of your properties, there are certain things you need to provide to ensure they have a safe and comfortable living space. In this guide, we’ll take a look at what you need to provide your tenants when they move in, so you can be a responsible landlord and avoid any legal issues down the line.

Provide a Move-In Checklist

Before your tenants move in, create a move-in checklist that outlines everything they need to do and what you need to do. This checklist should include items such as:

• Collect first month’s rent and security deposit
• Sign lease agreement
• Receive keys to the property
• Inspect the property for damages
• Go over any special instructions or rules

By providing a move-in checklist, you can ensure that both you and your tenant are on the same page and that everything goes smoothly.

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Offer a Copy of the Lease Agreement

Your lease agreement is a crucial document that outlines the terms of the tenancy. Make sure to provide a copy of the lease agreement to your tenants when they move in. This will help ensure that they understand their rights and responsibilities, and it will also protect you legally in case of any disputes.

Provide copies of compliance documents

Before the tenancy start date, legally you must provide copies of the following to your tenants:

• The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
• Gas Safety Certificate (if applicable)
• Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
• How to Rent Guide
• 3 documents certifying the registration of the deposit; the deposit registration certificate, prescribed information and scheme leaflet.

Give Keys to the Property

When your tenants move in, they will need keys to the property. Make sure to provide them with at least one set of keys, and explain any special instructions for using the locks.

Provide Emergency Contact Information

In case of an emergency, your tenants will need to know how to get in touch with you or your property manager. Provide them with emergency contact information, including phone numbers and email addresses.

Explain How to Handle Maintenance Requests

Your tenants will inevitably have maintenance requests or repairs that need to be made. Make sure to explain how to handle these requests, including who to contact and how quickly they can expect a response.

Offer Information About the Local Area

Your tenants may be new to the area, so provide them with information about local amenities, such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and hospitals. This will help them settle in more quickly and feel more comfortable in their new home.

Provide Contact Information for Utilities

Make sure to provide your tenants with contact information for utilities such as water, gas, and electricity. This will help them set up their accounts and ensure that they have uninterrupted service.

Set Expectations for Inspections

As a landlord, you have the right to inspect your property periodically. Make sure to set expectations for these inspections, including how much notice you will give and what you will be looking for.

Explain Tenant Responsibilities

Your tenants have certain responsibilities when it comes to maintaining the property. Make sure to explain what these responsibilities are, including:

• Keeping the property clean and tidy
• Reporting any damages or necessary repairs
• Abiding by the terms of the lease agreement
• Following any special instructions or rules

Offer a Welcome Gift

To make your tenants feel welcome, consider offering a small welcome gift. This could be something as simple as a bottle of wine, a bouquet of flowers, or a gift card to a local restaurant. This gesture can go a long way in creating a positive relationship with your tenants.

As a landlord, it is your responsibility to provide your tenants with a safe and comfortable living space. By providing the necessary information and resources when your tenants move in, you can set the stage for a positive and productive tenancy. Remember to provide a move-in checklist, offer a copy of the lease agreement, give keys to the property, provide emergency contact information, explain how to handle maintenance requests, offer information about the local area, provide contact information for utilities, set expectations for inspections, explain tenant responsibilities, and offer a welcome gift. By following these guidelines, you can be a responsible landlord and create a positive relationship with your tenants.

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