Why Self Storage Is Essential When Turning Your Home Into a Rental

As the excitement of a trip abroad or a long-term adventure calls, many of us are faced with the question of what to do with our homes. For some, renting out their property is the ideal way to make extra income and ensure that the place doesn’t sit empty while they’re away. However, there’s more to it than simply handing over the keys to a tenant. To make the process smoother and more secure, we’ve put together a few dos and don’ts to guide you.

Do: Choose the Right Rental Option

The first step in renting out your home is deciding whether you’ll offer it as a short-term holiday rental or a longer-term lease. For those embarking on a year-long adventure, a longer lease might be the way to go. However, if your travel plans are more short-term, such as a few months, you might want to consider renting to tourists through platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com. Think about what suits your travel timeline and how much effort you’re willing to put into the rental process.

Don’t: Skip the Legal Stuff

Before you even think about handing over your property, make sure you understand the legal requirements of renting it out. This includes things like obtaining landlord insurance, understanding your tax obligations, and ensuring that your property complies with health and safety standards. If you’re renting to tenants, you’ll need a formal tenancy agreement to protect both parties. Ignoring the paperwork can cause headaches down the road, so it's best to get everything in order beforehand.

Do: Keep Your Valuables Safe

Renting out your home means opening your doors to strangers. Naturally, this can feel a little unnerving, especially when it comes to your personal belongings. That’s where self-storage comes in handy. Before you head off on your travels, consider storing valuable items—whether it’s expensive electronics, sentimental family heirlooms, or important paperwork. Renting a self-storage unit provides peace of mind knowing that your things are secure, and it also frees up space in your home, allowing tenants to enjoy a clutter-free environment.

Read our top tips for decluttering your home.

Don’t: Leave Your Home Unprepared

Make sure your property is in tip-top shape before you leave. This doesn’t just mean cleaning it; you’ll need to check that all appliances are working properly, that there are no safety hazards, and that the property is ready for someone to live in. It’s also wise to leave clear instructions for tenants, including things like how to operate the heating, where to find the Wi-Fi password, and what to do in case of an emergency.

All rental properties have to meet safety standards and have certification to prove it. You will need to hire someone to check and certify electric appliances and systems, gas appliances, and more.

Find out more about rental property safety standards and certification. 

Do: Set Clear Expectations

Whether you’re renting to a long-term tenant or short-term holidaymakers, set clear expectations from the start. Be upfront about things like the property’s rules, any maintenance you expect them to handle, and how you’ll be managing communication. If you’re renting on a platform like Airbnb, make sure your listing is detailed and includes high-quality photos, so prospective tenants know exactly what to expect.

Don’t: Forget to Keep in Touch

Although you’re travelling and your home is being rented out, you’ll still want to check in now and then. Stay in touch with your tenants to ensure that everything is running smoothly and that they don’t need anything. This will help build trust and keep everything on track. In some cases, you may even want to arrange for a friend or property manager to act as a point of contact while you’re away.

Conclusion

Renting out your home while you travel can be a great way to earn extra income and ensure your property is well-maintained while you’re off exploring. By following these dos and don’ts, and considering the added security of self-storage for your valuables, you can relax knowing that your property is in good hands. Safe travels, and happy renting!