GREAT WESTERN HOMES provide a full property management service to owners/landlords. These FAQ’s will fill in some of the details, but please don’t hesitate to contact us on 01643 862580 if you have any other queries.


How do you decide on the rent?
We have a great deal of knowledge about rents in the area. After visiting your property, taking full particulars and taking into account the standard of the accommodation, we will discuss and advise on all aspects of letting and on an achievable rent.

Where will you advertise my property?
We market the property via local newspapers, our website and mail-out to our waiting list of prospective tenants.

Do you attend viewings?
Yes, we undertake to show potential tenants around your property.

How many references do you take?
In addition to interviewing prospective tenants we take up job references, financial, solicitor’s or previous landlord’s references.

What if a tenant fails to pay rent?
Our aim is to take the greatest care in managing properties. However, there can be cases of late or non-payment of rent. Naturally we will make every effort possible to collect this rent, but we are not liable for the loss or other defaults by tenants, or any associated legal costs that might occur. Although non-payment is rare, you may wish to take out an insurance policy to cover this.

Will I get a better rent furnished or unfurnished?
Generally there is little difference in the rent of either. Tenants requirements vary widely. All soft furnishings must comply with the Fire Resistance Requirements. Also, the repair and maintenance of any electrical appliances would be the landlord’s responsibility, unless specified to the contrary.

With unfurnished properties it is recommended that carpets and curtains are provided and basic gardening equipment.

What is the length of the tenancy agreement?
In most cases we deal in six month Assured Shorthold Tenancies suitable for letting self-contained houses or flats.

What fees do you charge?
Our management fee is deducted as a percentage from the gross rents as they are collected during the period of the tenancy and are based on the level of service required.

We will be delighted to further discuss this or any other queries you may have.

What if I have a mortgage on the property I want to let?
Where properties are mortgaged it is usually necessary for the landlord to obtain written permission to let from the mortgagee.

Do you take an inventory?
We carry out a property inspection and inventory check at both the beginning and ending of the tenancy.

What is the current arrangement for deposits?
The tenant is required to pay a returnable deposit usually equivalent to one month's rent + £100.00. This is registered with the 'insurance backed scheme' operated by the government appointed Tenancy Deposit Solutions Ltd. (TDSL) run by the National Landlords Association (NLA). There is a charge to the Landlord of £26.50 + VAT at the current rate for each deposit registered, which covers the period of the tenancy. Should any dispute arise at the conclusion of the tenancy then it will be necessary to follow the TDSL procedure.

Do you collect the rent?
Great Western Homes administer the collection and payment of rent on a monthly basis, less any fees or expenses due, forwarding a detailed Payment Advice to the landlord.

Do you organise inspections and repairs?
We undertake to visit your property on an agreed regular basis and to advise of any problems that might occur. When necessary we arrange for tradesmen to carry out minor repairs within an agreed prior budget.

Who notifies the utilities of tenant changes?
We notify the relevant authorities of changes in tenants and taking meter readings where possible.

Do you organise gas inspections?
Landlords are legally required to have all gas appliances inspected for safety by a GAS SAFE registered installer, who will issue a Gas Safety Certificate. This is an annual requirement which we will arrange on your behalf unless instructed otherwise.

Should electrical wiring be checked?
All electrical appliances are required to be in good, safe working order. If the wiring has not been checked recently, a qualified electrician should inspect this prior to the property being let. It is also recommended that smoke detectors be fitted.

Energy Performance Certificate?
As from 1st October 2008 both domestic dwellings and commercial property require a current Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) when they are being marketed for let .

Re-directing mail?
Where possible we will make every effort to redirect mail in the short term.

Do I pay tax on rent received?
Rental property income is treated as unearned income and is subject to income tax. We are happy to give general advice on costs that can be offset against rental income.

What arrangements do you have for overseas landlords?
If you are classed as an overseas landlord by the Inland Revenue we would be required to deduct tax at the standard rate on your behalf. However, provided your tax affairs are in order, as agents, we can apply to the Financial Intermediaries and Claims Office (FICO) for approval to have your rent paid net of tax. We may make a charge for overseas faxes and phone calls.