Insurance

You should get appropriate insurance - your insurance broker should be able to help you.  If not, we recommend Adrian Flux (08000 83 88 33 or www.adrianflux.co.uk). Although it is usual to take damages deposit of around £200, you should be insured against major damage.
 

Internet access

We recommend getting internet access - it's probably the facility we are asked about most frequently.  
 

Gas Safety

If there is gas in the flat, you will need a Landlord's safety certificate.  A registered plumber needs to do this.  
 

Electrical safety

Similarly, a safety certificate covering the electrical installation should be obtained and electrical safety certificate for all portable electrical appliances (PAT) over 12 months old.  
 

Information pack

 A pack containing all relevant information regarding your property is required. Please enquire. 
 

Council Tax

If you are letting your property pretty much full time, there is an opportunity to not pay council tax. This is not required to start letting the flat, but it does result in a worthwhile saving, so here are the instructions for the reduction:
Ask for a deletion from the Domestic Council Tax Valuation List - because you believe that Business Rates should apply. Correspond with The Assessor, Lothian Valuation Joint Board, 17a South Gyle Crescent, Edinburgh, EH12 9FL.  Please note that it may take some time, you will have to be prepared to do the follow up with the Domestic Council Tax Office.
You may get a visit from someone who will inspect to make sure it’s not your home/second home but is set up for holiday letting. They may also want details of websites, contracts, invoices or other evidence that you are a business, using that address. They have not visited our properties and did just accept the web-site details provided.