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Photo for illustration. Photo from Pexels.
At the end of a company let, the operator gives notice as the lease requires, cleans and returns the home, and a check-out report is compared with the start inventory. Fair wear and tear is expected, but damage beyond it is put right or paid for. Keys, codes and utilities are then handed back.
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What happens at the end of a company let?
The end of a company let follows a clear set of steps, set out in the lease.
- Notice. Either side gives notice in line with the lease or break clause.
- Final bookings. The operator stops taking guest bookings beyond the end date.
- Removal and cleaning. The operator removes its own furniture, if agreed, and cleans the home.
- Check-out report. The home is inspected and compared with the start inventory.
- Settlement. Any damage beyond fair wear and tear is repaired or paid for.
- Handover. Keys, fobs and codes are returned, and meter readings taken.
What counts as fair wear and tear?
Fair wear and tear is the natural deterioration from normal use over time. Damage is harm beyond that, caused by accident or misuse.
| Fair wear and tear | Damage |
|---|---|
| Light scuffs on walls | Holes, burns or large stains |
| Carpet worn in walkways | Carpet ripped or badly stained |
| Faded curtains | Torn or missing curtains |
| Loose handles from use | Broken fittings or appliances |
Judged against the start inventory and the length of the lease.
Rooms are compared with the start photos. Photo from Pexels.
What admin is needed at handback?
Handback also involves transferring bills and telling the council, so nothing is charged to the wrong party.
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See GOV.UK council tax for telling your council about a change.
How does Esho Stays handle handback?
Esho Stays agrees the handback standard in the company lease at the start, inspects regularly through the lease and hands homes back clean, with keys and codes reset.
- Esho Stays becomes your tenant under a company lease
- Rent is paid in full every month, even if the property is empty
- We list the home across major booking platforms and our direct network of more than 30 companies
- We handle bookings, guest screening, communication, cleaning and maintenance
- Regular inspections, with cleaning between every stay
- A landlord dashboard showing upcoming bookings and performance
Read our guides to inventories and company let agreements.
Frequently asked questions
Who keeps the furniture at the end of a company let?
It depends on who bought it and what the lease says. If the operator furnished the home, it usually removes its furniture or offers to sell it to the owner. If the owner supplied furniture, it stays. Agree this at the start.
How long does handback take?
Most handbacks take a few days to a couple of weeks, covering the final clean, check-out report, any repairs and transfer of accounts. Planning the final bookings around the end date avoids delays.
What if the owner and operator disagree about damage?
Compare the check-out report with the start inventory and photos, and discuss each item. If you still disagree, a neutral inventory clerk or mediator can help. A detailed inventory at the start prevents most disputes.
Can a company let end early?
Only if the lease allows it, usually through a break clause with a notice period, or by agreement. Check the break terms for both sides before signing, so you know how the lease could end early.
Next step
Want a clear handback standard from the start?
Tell us about your property, and we will explain how our company lease handles the end of the term.
