Introduction

Managing a rental property can be time-consuming, especially for landlords juggling multiple investments. A professional property management service takes the hassle out of day-to-day operations, ensuring your property is well-maintained, legally compliant, and consistently generating income.

But what exactly do property management services include? And what should landlords handle themselves? In this guide, we break down the key responsibilities of a property management company, what you can expect from a service like Upgrade Authority, and what falls outside their scope.

What Does a Property Management Service Include?

A reliable property management company oversees essential aspects of a rental property, from tenant relations to legal compliance. Here are the core services provided:

Tenant Sourcing & Vetting

Finding reliable tenants is crucial for a smooth rental experience. A property management service handles professional property listings, conducts background checks, arranges viewings, and drafts tenancy agreements that comply with UK regulations. Tenant vetting also includes assessing affordability and ensuring that tenants have a history of maintaining rental agreements responsibly.

In addition to finding tenants, a good property management company will manage tenant relations, acting as a point of contact for all tenant enquiries, maintenance requests, and disputes. This ensures that landlords are not burdened with day-to-day tenant issues, allowing for a hands-off investment approach.

Rent Collection & Financial Management

Ensuring a steady cash flow is one of the biggest concerns for landlords. Property managers collect rent, chase late payments, provide monthly financial statements, and handle deposit protection in line with UK deposit protection schemes. Many property managers also offer direct payment transfers, ensuring landlords receive their rental income without delay.

Additionally, property managers can track expenses related to maintenance, compliance checks, and service fees, offering landlords a clear and transparent financial overview. Some services even provide budgeting assistance, helping landlords plan for potential maintenance costs and market fluctuations.

Property Maintenance & Repairs

Keeping a property in excellent condition is essential for tenant satisfaction and property value. Services include organising routine maintenance, coordinating emergency repairs, and conducting regular inspections to prevent long-term damage. Proactive maintenance helps to avoid costly repairs down the line and keeps properties in good standing with tenants.

Property managers also work with a trusted network of tradespeople, ensuring that all work carried out is of high quality and cost-effective. From boiler servicing to electrical safety checks, property management companies take the stress out of property upkeep.

Legal Compliance & Safety Regulations

Landlords in the UK must adhere to strict legal requirements. Property managers ensure compliance with gas, electrical, and fire safety regulations, manage licensing requirements for HMOs (Houses in Multiple Occupation), and oversee eviction procedures within legal guidelines.

With the evolving landscape of rental legislation, staying compliant is more critical than ever. Property managers keep landlords updated on regulatory changes, ensuring they avoid fines or legal issues. Services often include handling required safety certifications, such as Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs) and Gas Safety Certificates.

Marketing & Property Listings

A property manager provides income reports and expense tracking, but tax submissions and mortgage refinancing remain the landlord’s responsibility. Consulting a tax advisor is recommended for optimising rental income strategies. Some property managers, however, can connect landlords with specialist tax consultants who focus on property investments.

Short-Term & Airbnb Management

For landlords operating Airbnb or holiday lets, some property managers provide additional services such as guest communication, check-ins, professional cleaning, and review management.

Short-term rental management includes dynamic pricing strategies, ensuring that landlords earn competitive rates throughout peak and off-peak seasons. It also involves managing multiple booking platforms, ensuring high occupancy rates and positive guest experiences.

Upgrade Authority offers comprehensive short-let services alongside long-term property services, ensuring landlords maximise their returns with expert management solutions.