Letting with Samson Consultants
London's local rental property management experts, here for you every step of the way.
Choosing the right management agent is a big decision. We provide full rental and management services to all property owners.
An approach tailored to you and your property
We know that letting a property can be a difficult decision. With finances and regulations to keep track of, it can seem like a daunting task. That's why, at Samson, we're focused on the people behind the property.
Whether you're just embarking on your first property investment or you've owned Buy to Lets for many years, our lettings agents are here to listen to what's important to you as a landlord and help you to achieve it — be it finding the right tenants or increasing your yields.
Renting and managing real estate can be a very stressful process and you're already busy with constant changes in laws, filing and registering documents, arranging contractors for repairs, and dealing with tenant issues. Let us take the weight off your shoulders.
Speak to our lettings team
Why landlords choose Samson
Protect your income
At Samson we assure all of our landlords with our guaranteed rent protection, just in case your tenants should fall on hard times and their rent is at risk.
Avoid void periods
We plan ahead so we can react quickly and give you the confidence that your flow of income is kept uninterrupted.
You're in control
We offer a range of different service levels, so you can decide the level of assistance you need from us.
Always here to help
We're open and reachable outside of normal working hours with advice and guidance to give you even more peace of mind.
Keep your property looking its best
We carry out regular visits, as standard, to make sure your property is kept in tip-top condition.
Keeping your property covered
We work closely with specialists to offer you comprehensive cover, built to suit you and your needs.
Our lettings and management service includes
Our unique approach to marketing helps you attract the very best tenants and secure the highest possible yields. We are so sure of our unique approach that we back it with our guaranteed rent protection.
- Comprehensive marketing to secure quality tenants
- Tenant vetting and referencing
- Creation of tenancy agreements
- Compliance advice
- Full inventory service
- Rent collection
- Property management
- Management of pre-tenancy works
- Renewals and rent negotiation
The costs of letting
Understanding the full costs involved in letting your property will help you plan effectively and protect your investment. Below is a breakdown of the typical expenses you may encounter.
Estate agent's letting fee
Letting agent fees vary depending on the level of service you choose — tenant find only, rent collection, or full management. Fees are typically charged as a percentage of the monthly rent. VAT is applicable on all fees.
Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
An EPC is legally required before you can market your property to let. The certificate is valid for 10 years and must show a minimum rating of E. The cost is typically between £60 and £120.
Gas safety certificate
Landlords are legally required to have a gas safety check carried out annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer. Certificates typically cost between £60 and £120.
Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR)
Since 2020, landlords in England must have a valid EICR in place before a new tenancy begins. Reports are required every 5 years and typically cost between £100 and £300 depending on property size.
Inventory and check-in costs
A professional inventory protects both landlord and tenant and is strongly recommended. Costs vary depending on the size of the property.
Landlord insurance
Standard home insurance may not cover you as a landlord. Specialist landlord insurance covers buildings, contents, loss of rent and liability. Premiums vary depending on the property and level of cover.
Maintenance and repairs
Landlords are responsible for maintaining the structure and exterior of the property, heating, hot water, and sanitation. Budgeting for ongoing maintenance is essential.
Income tax on rental income
Rental income is subject to income tax. You can deduct allowable expenses such as letting agent fees, maintenance costs, and insurance premiums. Speak to a tax adviser for guidance specific to your situation.
The letting process
A step-by-step guide to letting your property in England and Wales — from instructing an agent through to managing an ongoing tenancy.
- 1
Instruct a letting agent
Choose a letting agent with strong local knowledge and a proven track record. Agree on the level of service — tenant find, rent collection, or full management — and the fee structure.
- 2
Prepare your property
Ensure your property is clean, well-maintained and compliant with all legal requirements before marketing begins. Address any outstanding repairs and obtain all required certificates.
- 3
Market the property
Your agent will arrange professional photography, write a compelling listing and advertise your property across major portals including Rightmove, Zoopla and OnTheMarket.
- 4
Tenant referencing
Once a suitable applicant is found, your agent will carry out thorough referencing including credit checks, employment verification and previous landlord references.
- 5
Tenancy agreement and deposit
A legally compliant tenancy agreement is prepared and signed by all parties. The deposit is collected and registered with a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.
- 6
Check-in and inventory
A detailed inventory is completed at the start of the tenancy, recording the condition of the property and its contents. This protects both landlord and tenant at the end of the tenancy.
- 7
Ongoing management
If you have opted for full management, your agent will handle rent collection, maintenance requests, periodic inspections and all tenant communications on your behalf.
- 8
Renewal or end of tenancy
As the tenancy approaches its end, your agent will advise on renewal terms or begin remarketing the property. A check-out inspection is carried out and the deposit is returned or disputed as appropriate.
Buying to let
Buy-to-let remains one of the most popular forms of property investment in the UK. Whether you are purchasing your first investment property or expanding an existing portfolio, Samson Consultants can guide you through every stage of the process.
As RICS Chartered Surveyors, we can provide independent valuations, survey reports and investment appraisals to help you make informed decisions. Our estate agency team can also help you identify suitable properties and negotiate the best purchase price.
Understanding rental yields
Rental yield is calculated by dividing the annual rental income by the property value and expressing it as a percentage. Gross yield does not account for costs; net yield deducts expenses such as agent fees, maintenance and insurance. Our team can help you assess the yield potential of any property before you commit to a purchase.
Zero deposit renting
Zero deposit schemes allow tenants to move in without paying a traditional cash deposit, replacing it with a low-cost insurance policy. This can significantly widen your pool of prospective tenants, particularly in London where deposit costs can be prohibitive.
As a landlord, you retain the same level of protection as a traditional deposit — any legitimate claim at the end of the tenancy is covered by the scheme. Samson can advise you on whether a zero deposit scheme is appropriate for your property and circumstances.
About short term lets
Short term lets — typically defined as lettings of less than 90 days — can generate higher nightly rates than long-term tenancies, but come with additional management demands and regulatory considerations.
In London, properties let on a short-term basis for more than 90 nights per year require planning permission. Mortgage lenders and freeholders may also impose restrictions. It is important to check all relevant permissions before marketing a property for short-term letting.
Samson Consultants can advise on the suitability of your property for short-term letting and help you understand the regulatory landscape.
Landlords' rights and responsibilities
Landlords in England have a range of legal obligations to their tenants. Staying compliant protects both you and your tenants and helps avoid costly disputes.
Property condition
You must keep the structure and exterior of the property in good repair, including the roof, walls, windows and doors.
Heating and utilities
You are responsible for maintaining heating, hot water, gas, electricity and sanitation installations.
Safety certificates
Annual gas safety checks, five-yearly electrical inspections (EICR) and working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are all legal requirements.
Right to rent checks
You must verify that all adult occupants have the legal right to rent in England before the tenancy begins.
Deposit protection
Any deposit taken must be registered with a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days of receipt.
Rent increases
Rent can only be increased in accordance with the terms of the tenancy agreement and relevant legislation. Proper notice must always be given.
Ready to let your property?
Book a rental valuation with our expert lettings team today.