Guaranteed rent, paid every month

With guaranteed rent, the agency agrees a fixed monthly amount with you and pays it on the same date every month for the length of the agreement. If the property sits empty between tenants, you are still paid. If a tenant falls behind, you are still paid.

What is usually included

• A fixed rent paid monthly for a set term, often three to five years
• No void periods and no gaps between tenants
• No letting or management fees taken from your rent
• Tenants found, checked and looked after by the agency
• Day-to-day repairs and inspections arranged for you
• The property handed back in agreed condition at the end of the term

Who it suits

Guaranteed rent suits landlords who value a predictable income over the highest possible rent. It is popular with landlords who live abroad or far from the property, own several properties and want simpler accounts, have had trouble with arrears or empty months, or simply want to step back from being a landlord.

The trade-off

Because the agency carries the risk of empty months and missed payments, the guaranteed figure is normally below the full market rent. Whether that is worth it depends on how much you value the certainty, and how much time you currently spend on the property.

Questions to ask before you sign

• How long is the term, and is there a break clause?
• Which repairs does the agency cover, and which stay with you?
• Who holds the safety certificates and licences?
• What condition will the property be returned in?
• Does your mortgage lender or insurer need to agree to the arrangement?

Read more in our guide: guaranteed rent explained.

Areas covered

Guaranteed rent in London, Guaranteed rent in Essex, Guaranteed rent in Surrey, plus larger properties anywhere in the UK.