The National Landlords Association (NLA) has just published guidelines for would-be and ‘accidental’ landlords. Provide a proper tenancy agreement, usually an assured shorthold tenancy (AST) agreement that you and the tenant sign. This will outline the length of the tenancy, amount of rent, when it is to be paid, and deposit details.
 
Protect the tenant’s deposit with a government-authorised scheme, such as mydeposits. Create an inventory describing the condition of the property in detail, along with the furnishings. Have gas appliances checked annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer and provide the tenant with a gas safety certificate.
 
Take out comprehensive landlord insurance to protect your property. Ensure urgent repairs are fixed promptly. Use reputable tradesmen that you know and can trust to tend to the property at short notice. More at www.landlords.org.uk.