Frequently asked questions
Answers about guaranteed rent, company lets, HMOs and managed lettings.
All questions
How is the guaranteed rent figure worked out?
We look at what the property would achieve on the open market, the condition it is in and the length of lease you want, then offer a fixed monthly figure below full market rent. The difference covers voids, management and the risk we take on. You get the offer in writing before anything is signed.
Do I pay any fees or commission?
No letting fees or commission come out of your rent. The figure in your lease is the figure that arrives in your account.
Does my property need an HMO licence?
In England a mandatory HMO licence is needed where five or more people forming more than one household share facilities. Some councils also run additional or selective licensing. We check which rules apply to your address before we make an offer.
Who holds the HMO licence?
That depends on the arrangement and the council. We agree with you who will be named as the licence holder and manager before the lease starts, and it is written into the agreement.
Are company lets affected by the Renters' Rights Act?
The main tenancy changes that took effect on 1 May 2026 apply to assured tenancies. Lettings to companies are one of the exclusions, so they can still be granted as common law tenancies. Take independent legal advice on your own situation.
Who lives in the property?
Working people placed by us, such as contractors, professionals on assignment and key workers. We vet occupiers and remain responsible to you under the lease.
Will my mortgage allow this?
Some mortgages and leasehold agreements restrict short stays or business use. We ask you to check with your lender and, for flats, your freeholder before the lease is signed, and we can list what to ask.
Who furnishes the property?
We agree this up front. Often we furnish it; sometimes the landlord supplies furniture in return for a higher rent.
How is this different from guaranteed rent?
With management you keep the tenancy, the full rent and the void risk, and pay a fee. With guaranteed rent we lease the property and pay you a fixed figure every month.
Can I switch to guaranteed rent later?
Yes. Many landlords start on management and move to a guaranteed rent lease once the current tenancy ends.
Do I have to pay for the work up front?
Not necessarily. We set out the options in writing: you can pay for the works, or in some cases the cost can be reflected in the rent offer. Nothing starts until you agree.
Who does the work?
S&K Property Investments and Improvement Ltd, part of the S&K Group, carries out the refurbishment.
Do all properties have to be in the same town?
No. We cover all twelve Midlands counties, so a portfolio spread across several towns can sit under one arrangement.
Can you take properties one at a time?
Yes. Properties can move over as existing tenancies end, so you are never left with a gap.
I have never let a property. Is that a problem?
No. We explain each step, list the documents we need and set out what you remain responsible for, such as the building insurance and your mortgage lender's consent.
Can I sell the property during the lease?
The lease sets out what happens if you want to sell. Break clauses can be agreed at the start if you think you might sell.
How quickly can an empty home be leased?
If it needs little work, the lease can start soon after it is agreed and signed. If it needs work, we give you an estimated programme first.
Do councils charge more on empty homes?
Many councils apply a council tax premium to homes that have been empty long term. Check with the relevant council for your property.
Is the rent fixed for the whole term?
It can be, or the lease can include set review points. Whatever is agreed is written into the lease so there are no surprises.
Can I end a long lease early?
Only on the terms set out in the lease, such as an agreed break clause. Tell us at the start if you want flexibility.
Get a written rent offer
Find out what your property could earn on guaranteed rent.