[lindsay ormerod]

My advice would be to rent it privately if you can, no agency , and try to rent to someone you know or who is recommended to you. Don't rent to immediate family because they would not be able to claim any housing benefit/ council tax benefit if they needed to because of the relationship. Draw up a proper tenancy agreement and get a deposit/bond off the tenant. State that it's non returnable if the house is left in a state or there are unpaid bills, at least it will go some way to covering your costs. Most landlords want a month's rent upfront as a bond, but you could ask for more plus references.
Good luck!