Most landlords expect a property management service to collect rent, organise maintenance and deal with tenant queries. But what happens when a routine property inspection uncovers hidden structural defects, water damage, insurance claims, contractor negotiations and a £50,000 refurbishment project?
That’s exactly the situation our Property Management team faced when long-term tenants vacated a 2-bedroom split-level Georgian apartment in a popular Reading conservation area. With the landlord living more than 3,000 miles away in Boston, USA, Haslams took responsibility for every aspect of the project – from sourcing contractors and managing budgets to coordinating structural repairs, insurance claims and compliance requirements. The result was a fully refurbished property, a new tenant, and a 23% increase in achievable rental income.
Project Results at a Glance
- Landlord based in Boston, USA
- Eight-year tenancy successfully managed
- Five-month refurbishment programme
- £50,000 project managed on behalf of landlord
- £40,000+ saved compared to the highest quotation received
- New tenant secured following completion
- Rental increase from £1,300 (furnished) to £1,600 (unfurnished) per month
- 23% increase in rental income for the landlord
- Additional £3,600 annual rental revenue
The Challenge: Hidden Problems Revealed After an Eight-Year Tenancy
When the long-term tenants moved out after eight years, our routine property inspections revealed significant issues that required immediate attention. While some wear and tear was expected, further investigations uncovered a number of more serious problems, several of which would be classified as Category 1 hazards under the updated Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS).
The property required extensive refurbishment works, including repairs to damp, plumbing defects and hidden structural damage caused by long-term water ingress. Some of the issues had developed over a number of years and were concealed beneath bathroom fixtures and floor coverings.
The situation was further complicated by the fact that the damage had also affected the apartment below, requiring careful coordination with neighbouring residents, contractors and insurers to ensure repairs could be carried out safely and efficiently.
For a landlord living more than 3,000 miles away, managing a project of this scale remotely would have been extremely challenging.
Taking Control: Managing a Major Refurbishment from Overseas
Acting on the landlord’s behalf, Haslams’ Property Management team took full responsibility for the project from start to finish.
Our priority was to assess the extent of the works required and obtain competitive quotations from trusted contractors. By carefully reviewing and negotiating proposals, we were able to reduce the projected cost of the refurbishment from more than £90,000 to approximately £50,000, while ensuring all essential works were completed to a high standard.
Over five months, we coordinated a comprehensive programme of improvements, including:
- Installation of a new kitchen
- Refurbishment of two bathrooms
- Structural floor and joist repairs
- Plumbing upgrades and leak remediation
- New radiators throughout
- New carpets and flooring
- Full internal redecoration
- External repairs and maintenance works
- Insurance claims and compliance certification
Throughout the project, our team managed contractor appointments, inspections, payments and ongoing communication with all parties involved. We also worked closely with the landlord to provide regular updates and recommendations, enabling informed decisions without the need for them to travel to the UK.
By the end of the project, the property had been restored to an exceptional standard, with all identified hazards resolved and no outstanding HHSRS concerns.
Coordinating Contractors, Insurers and Structural Repairs
The refurbishment transformed both the condition and rental potential of the property.
Following completion, we recommended marketing the apartment unfurnished. This not only broadened its appeal to prospective tenants but also reduced future maintenance responsibilities associated with landlord-owned furniture.
As a result, the achievable rent increased from £1,300 to £1,600 per calendar month – a 23% uplift and an additional £3,600 in annual rental income.
A new tenant was secured shortly after completion, ensuring minimal void time and allowing the landlord to begin benefiting from the increased rental return immediately.
Alongside the rental uplift, the landlord now benefits from:
- A fully refurbished property
- Increased long-term asset value
- Improved compliance and safety standards
- Reduced future maintenance liabilities
- Complete peace of mind
The Outcome: A Fully Refurbished Property and Higher Rental Income
This project is an excellent example of the value that professional property management can provide. From major refurbishment projects and insurance claims to contractor management, compliance and tenant liaison, Haslams offers landlords a single point of contact and expert guidance at every stage of the lettings journey.
For this overseas landlord, that meant protecting their investment, increasing rental income and successfully delivering a complex refurbishment project – all from more than 3,000 miles away.
Why Professional Property Management Matters
Whether you’re based overseas, own a growing property portfolio or just want the reassurance of expert support, Haslams’ experienced Property Management team can help protect your investment and maximise your returns.
Contact us today on 0118 960 1055 to find out more about our fully managed property management service and how we can help make being a landlord simpler, safer and more rewarding.