Fiona lives in a rented property in Flitwick.

Fiona went on a fortnight’s break to Barcelona with her family. She knew she still had to pay the rent even while they were all away from home, but she failed to fulfil her other obligations as a tenant when on holiday.

Don’t forget your tenancy agreement like Fiona…

Do notify your agent.

It’s important to alert your agent about any trips you’ve got planned. This isn’t because they’re nosey, but because they’ll need to know if the property’s empty in case of an emergency or if there are any inspections that’ll need rescheduling. The agent can let your landlord know, as any unoccupied periods could affect their buildings insurance policy. If your agent and your landlord don’t know you’re away, your deposit could take a hit if damage happens at the home during your holiday.

Do check your insurance.

Tenants are responsible for arranging contents insurance. Policies often have a section on how long you can be away for, and this is usually around 25 days at a time. You’ll want your belongings covered should there be a burglary, so make sure to check what your provider has specified, and adhere to it so you don’t invalidate your insurance.

Do ask a friend or neighbour to keep an eye out.

It’s sensible to ask someone to pop to the property for a onceover while you’re away, especially in extreme weather like wind and rain. They can let you know if any windows are smashed, if gutters are broken, or if any fencing has blown down. Even in the summer months, this is a possibility in our climate.

Do test the smoke alarms.

We’d like to hope this is a regular job for you, but at the very, very least, test your smoke alarms before going on holiday. This takes seconds, but could save a whole lot of heartache and hardship. Make sure to do this in good time to get new batteries, or even new units if they’re not in full working order.

Do turn the lights off.

Before you leave for the airport, turn off all plug sockets, light switches and home appliances. Don’t leave things on standby when no one will be there using them. It’s good sense to turn off the water stopcock too, avoiding any leaks either inside or out, which would be a nightmare to come home to, and a big cost on your water bill. You could drain the water system entirely, defending against Legionella.

Do leave the heating on.

Although not so necessary in warmer weather, if you’re going to be away in the winter months, it’s sensible to leave the heating on low to avoid frozen pipes. 14-16 degrees should do it!

Do lock up.

Last but not least, don’t forget to do a lap of the house before you leave, checking all doors and windows are locked, gates are bolted, sheds and outbuildings are secured, and that the alarm is on and the video doorbell is recording. Bon voyage!

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Do use a lettings agent like Orchards:

01525 40 22 66
ampthill@orchards.co.uk