The best time to list a rental property in London revealed
Lettings experts at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward reveal the best time to list a rental property in London to get twice as many enquiries
Spring is a natural reset for our homes with a light refresh going a long way to help us feel rejuvenated. A quick coat of paint where walls look tired, fresh sealant in the bathroom and a good tidy of cupboards and wardrobes will help your property feel brighter and more cared for. Small touches such as replacing scuffed handles, fixing a sticky latch or freshening soft furnishings can lift the space without a big spend.
With data revealing that June, July, and August made up 62% of all tenant enquiries across the year in 2025, and the same three months seeing twice as many tenant enquiries as January, February, March, April and May combined, now is the time for landlords and tenants to get ahead and prepare for the summer lettings rush.
Here at Kinleigh Folkard & Hayward (KFH), we understand that there are many jobs, easy fixes and ‘to dos’ on the list that will help give properties a much-needed spring clean in 2026. Here are our top tips for landlords and tenants:
For landlords
- Use spring to spruce up before you list
Give walls a fresh coat of paint, refresh flooring and tackle simple energy fixes such as draught proofing and LED lighting. Doing the jobs now helps the home look its best for viewings and makes future upkeep easier.
- Tidy your paperwork and keep it in one place
From 1 May 2026 new agreements will be rolling month to month, and you will need to give a short-written summary of the main terms. Current tenants should receive the government information sheet by 31 May 2026. Landlords can opt for a Fully Managed Service to lighten their compliance load and make the most of available support.
- Set a clear rhythm for rent reviews
You can increase the rent once a year and you must give at least two months’ notice using the proper form. Put a reminder in the diary and explain the steps to tenants early. Support from managing agents is available to establish market rent and action the requirements properly.
- Be prepared for pet requests
From May tenants can ask to keep a pet. Reply in writing within 28 days and give your reasons if you need to say no. If you need more information, you will have seven extra days once you receive it. A short pet policy that sets out house rules keeps things fair for everyone.
For tenants
- Know what changes in May
From 1 May 2026 private tenancies become rolling and Section 21 ‘no-fault’ evictions end. You can leave with two months’ notice, and your landlord must follow set reasons if they need the home back.
- Give your paperwork a spring clean
Keep certificates, emails and notes about repairs together. Councils already have stronger powers to ask for information, so a tidy file helps sort issues quickly.
- Plan ahead for rent changes
Your rent can go up once a year, and you will be given at least two months’ notice. If you think the new figure is above the going rate you can request the tribunal review the figure.
- Ask early about pets
Send a simple written request with a short description of your pet. Your landlord should reply within 28 days and should not refuse without a valid reason. If they ask for more details the final reply is due within seven days of you sending the extra information.
- Report damp and hazards quickly
Tell your landlord or the managing agent as soon as you spot a problem and keep photos and dates. Early reporting and friendly communication help fixes happen faster and keep the home in good shape.
If you’re planning to let your property this year, timing your listing correctly could significantly improve your results. Missing the summer peak of tenant enquiries could mean entering a quieter market with fewer active tenants and longer letting times. Don’t leave your property sitting empty – start your spring clean sooner, rather than later, and get ready to maximise your summer listing.
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