A computer with internet access is crucial to buyers and tenants in W4.
According to a new survey, 45% of households cited a computer with internet access as fundamental.
OliverFinn lettings manager Robert McPeake: “By law, we all need to be able to store food, wash our clothes, cook our food and heat the property when required.
Therefore a fridge, washing machine, oven and boiler are things that I would expect to find in any Chiswick rental property as a minimum. This is true regardless of whether you are looking for a furnished or unfurnished property in W4.
“After the basics the next most important thing is
internet access as people of all ages use the web for work and pleasure. Therefore, an active phone line is paramount. As a lettings agent in the Chiswick area, the most frustrating thing is trying to determine whether a vacant property has an active phone line or not.”
Cancellation not disconnection
Most outgoing tenants tend to disconnect the phone line as they vacate the property thinking this is correct procedure. New tenants are then expected to pay the phone companies over £100 to reconnect says McPeake: “This is a great revenue earner for the phone companies but it is an unnecessary expense as outgoing tenants’ need only to cancel the account, not disconnect the line.”
Without web access or contact with the wider media, some children may be disadvantaged in their education. Families who aren't on the internet also pay more for basic facilities. Figures from the Broadcasters Audience Research Board show 97% of UK homes have TVs, while, according to the Office for National Statistics, 73% of homes are connected to the internet.
The survey is the latest picture of modern Britain with over 15,000 people polled by consumer revenge site
moneysavingexpert. Here’s how the respondents rated everyday household items in order of necessity:
Boiler 89%
Cooker 89%
Fridge/freezer 86%
Washing machine 82%
Central heating 70%
Basic TV 49%
Home phone 47%
Web access 45%
Mobile phone 23%
Microwave 22%
Dishwasher 6%
Satellite/cable TV 6%
Games console 4%
Sample size: 15,105
"A satellite or cable TV as an important feature for tenants looking for a Chiswick let: “People like having the choice of connecting a digibox etc so external aerial ports are an advantage,” says McPeake. However the biggest property management issue agents experience is not one of connectivity but a lack of heating or hot water.
"If the boiler is not working properly in the winter periods, it is obviously a massive issue for tenants and landlords. Therefore, good insulation, boiler insurance, and a valid Gas Safety Certificate are things all landlords should ensure are in place, in order to avoid any nasty surprises in the future.”
