The 10-Point Landlord Success Checklist - What You Need to Get Right to Let Fast and Stay Compliant
Letting a property isn’t rocket science – but it’s not passive income either. The landlords who get the best results are the ones who treat it like a business from day one.
This quick-fire checklist covers the ten things every landlord needs to get right – if you want to stay compliant, attract better tenants, and avoid costly mistakes.
✅ 1. Price It Right
Forget what it rented for last time. The market changes.
Use recent comparable lets, local demand, and seasonality to guide your pricing – not just gut feel.
✅ 2. Present It Properly
Clean, neutral, and bright wins every time.
Declutter, fix cosmetic issues, and consider small upgrades like lighting, paint touch-ups, or replacing tired flooring. First impressions count – online and in person.
✅ 3. Get Your Marketing Sharp
Photos matter. Copy matters. Visibility matters.
Professional photos, video tours, and listings that speak to your ideal tenant will always outperform “quick and easy” uploads.
✅ 4. Know Your Tenant Type
Who is the home actually right for – professionals, families, sharers?
Tailor your ad, viewing style, and even finishing touches to the lifestyle they’re looking for.
✅ 5. Vet Your Tenants – Properly
No shortcuts.
Check income, references, rental history, and ID. Gut feeling isn’t enough – protect your asset with facts.
✅ 6. Nail the Legal Paperwork
There are non-negotiables here:
- Gas Safety Certificate
- EICR
- EPC
- Right to Rent checks
- How to Rent guide
- Deposit protection within 30 days
- Miss any of these and you're exposed – legally and financially.
✅ 7. Know If You Need a Licence
HMO or local selective licensing? Rules vary street by street.
We can help you check whether your property needs one, and what it involves.
✅ 8. Record Everything
From check-in photos to signed documents – paper trails matter.
If something goes wrong, documentation is your safety net.
✅ 9. Manage Repairs Quickly
Small issues turn into big ones if ignored.
Tenants stay longer and treat your home better when they know it’s looked after.
✅ 10. Review Regularly
Rents, regulations, and tenant expectations all change over time.
A quick annual review keeps you ahead – and avoids nasty surprises later.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ What happens if I miss one of these steps?
It depends – some will cost you money, others could cost you legal protection. For example, miss deposit protection and you might not be able to serve notice later.
❓ Can I just use a basic checklist I found online?
Generic checklists are fine for awareness – but local licensing, process order, and legal timeframes vary. It’s better to use one that reflects the current local rules – or speak to someone who knows them.
❓ How do I turn this list into a working process?
That’s exactly what we help landlords do. We build your letting plan around these 10 points – so nothing’s missed, and everything runs smoothly.
❓ Is this only for new landlords?
Not at all – we use this list when onboarding experienced landlords too. It’s a great way to catch any gaps before they turn into problems.
Want a free checklist walkthrough – or someone to just handle all this for you?
Let’s chat. We’ll talk you through where you stand, what needs sorting, and how to get things right – fast.