Landlord Checklist: What to Do Before Listing Your Elstree & Borehamwood Property for Rent

It is essential to prepare your rental property before bringing it to the market, not only to find the best quality tenant but also to stay compliant, protected and profitable. Families, professionals and commuters are all attracted to renting in Elstree and Borehamwood due to its excellent transport links, strong community and wide range of amenities.
We have created a checklist for all local landlords to follow before putting your property on the market in search of a new tenant.
1. Ensure Legal Compliance and Safety Certification
You must have all mandatory certificates in place before advertising your property.
A valid Gas Safety Certificate, completed by a registered gas engineer and renewed annually
An Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR), valid for five years
Smoke alarms on every floor and a carbon monoxide alarm in the room containing the boiler
A valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) with a rating of E or above, as required by law
Some local areas may also require landlords to register for Selective Licensing
2. Prepare Your Property for Tenants
Presentation plays a major role in attracting quality tenants quickly.
Arrange a professional clean, including carpets and windows
Check paintwork, flooring, lighting and appliances
Ensure heating and plumbing systems are fully operational
Provide user manuals for the boiler, thermostat and appliances where possible
3. Organise the Right Documentation
There are certain documents that landlords must provide at the start of a tenancy. Failure to do so can cause issues later, particularly if you need to regain possession of the property.
Required documents include:
The latest government-issued How to Rent Guide
Deposit Protection Certificate and prescribed information
Gas Safety Certificate
EPC Certificate
A compliant Tenancy Agreement
Deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receipt. Failure to comply can result in severe penalties.
5. Arrange Landlord Insurance
Standard home insurance does not cover rental properties. Consider specialist cover such as:
Landlord buildings insurance
Contents insurance (if the property is furnished)
Rent guarantee insurance
Legal cover for eviction or contractual disputes
6. Think About Management Support
Many landlords in Elstree and Borehamwood choose not to self-manage, as it can be time-consuming and stressful. By instructing a local Elstree and Borehamwood estate agent to manage your property, they can:
Find and fully reference suitable tenants
Collect rent
Carry out regular inspections
Coordinate maintenance and repairs
Help ensure ongoing legal compliance
Rental demand in Elstree and Borehamwood remains strong, but correct pricing is essential.
L&H Residential tracks local market trends to ensure:
Maximum rental return
Fast tenant placement
Reliable, fully referenced tenants
🏠 Need help letting your property?
L&H Residential can guide you through every step — from safety checks to tenant move-in.
📞 0203 617 1333
📩 Contact us today for a free rental valuation