IF YOU are offering furnished accommodation, choose furniture that will be durable and easy to clean. Carpets should be hard-wearing, particularly in areas that will take the most punishment.

As a responsible landlord, materials and fabrics should be checked to avoid a potential fire hazard.

Keep the decoration fairly plain and simple; remember it is easier to touch up painted walls than it is to repair damaged wallpaper. Do not personalise a house. This is the one occasion where accessories should be kept to a minimum. A general rule of thumb is to keep a property fairly neutral, a blank canvas for any style of living.

Be aware if you are providing sofas and dining room furniture - they may suffer spills and scratches. Don’t compromise on quality, it’s a false economy. Loose, washable covers on sofas are a safe bet and if possible, have a spare set of covers. Occasionally there are bargains to be found in secondhand furniture shops and charity outlets.

Basic bedroom furniture should include a bed, side table and storage space for clothes. Use plain but textured curtains in living spaces and blinds in kitchens and bathrooms. In the kitchen, a place to sit and eat is always a bonus.

The bathroom probably requires the least input if the suite is sound and clean. A shower as well as a bath can be a deciding factor for a prospective tenant.

Seek advice from a lettings agency for a guide to your potential income.

Don’t be daunted by the preparation to let. A consultation visit from a house doctor can help to guide you through.

* Deveda Tann is a house doctor/interior decor consultant. She can be contacted on tel: 01732 847147 or 07990 907516.