The Landlord’s Void Property Checklist: From Keys Back to Re-Let

A void period is when your property is earning nothing. A clear process gets it back on the market quickly and avoids the “we’re waiting for the bed” delays.

1. Check-out (day 1)

• Inspect against the check-in inventory.
• Take dated photos of every room, including furniture, walls, floors and appliances.
• Note any damage beyond fair wear and tear for the deposit discussion. Deposits must be protected in a government-approved scheme, so follow the scheme’s process.
• Take meter readings and collect all keys.

2. Clear (days 1–3)

• Remove anything the tenant left behind and any furniture you are replacing.
• Use a registered waste carrier. Landlords have a legal duty of care for waste, and if it gets fly-tipped you can be held responsible. Check registration with Natural Resources Wales.

3. Repair (days 2–7)

• Fix damage, worn fittings, sealant and anything from the tenant’s repair requests.
• Touch up or redecorate if needed.

4. Safety (before anyone moves in)

• Test every smoke and CO alarm. In Wales, smoke alarms must be mains-powered and interlinked on every storey.
• Check the EICR is in date (at least every five years).
• Check the gas safety record is in date (every year).
• Check every upholstered item and mattress has its fire safety label.

5. Clean

Book the professional clean after the trades, not before.

6. Furnish

• Replace anything worn, broken or unlabelled.
• Have it assembled on site and check it’s sturdy.

7. Re-inventory and market

• Write a fresh inventory with photos.
• Take listing photos while everything is new and clean.

What does a void cost?

Divide your annual rent by 52. At £900 a month, every empty week costs about £208. Cutting a void from four weeks to two saves over £400, which often pays for the furniture.

We can handle the clear-out and the new furniture in one booking. Call 029 2294 0071.

This article is general information for landlords, not legal advice. Rules change, so check the latest position with Rent Smart Wales, your local council or a qualified adviser before acting.

Need a rental furnished quickly? uBee supplies landlord furniture packages across Cardiff and South Wales, delivered and assembled on site. See our landlord packages or call 029 2294 0071.