Tenants Guide to Renting Property

If you are currently seeking a property to rent, check out our property listings page. If you have seen a property that you would like to view you can use the contact form on each of the individual property details pages to arrange a viewing or make an enquiry, or alternatively, you can give us a call. 
 
If you have a specific type of property in mind we can take details of your requirements and contact you should a suitable property become available. 
 
Once you have viewed a property and decided to proceed with the letting we will start the process of arranging the tenancy agreement, deposits, references etc... 

References

Before commencing with the tenancy we will need to obtain satisfactory references from your employer and/or a previous or current landlord. There may also be instances when we require a personal reference or guarantor. We may also use the services of an independent referencing agency to obtain and evaluate these references. Personal & photographic identification may also be required, such as a passport or driving license. 

The Tenancy Agreement

Once the terms have been agreed by both parties and satisfactory references received, the relevant documentation will need to be signed by you.

Tenants Fees

As well as paying the rent, you may also be required to make the following permitted payments:

Permitted Payments

Before the tenancy starts (payable to the Agent).

  • Holding deposit equal to one weeks’ rent
  • Renewal of the 'fixed period' £XX
  • Default Fees – where the rent is overdue by more than 14 days we can apply a default fee of 3% above the Bank of England base rate
  • Contractual Damages, this is where damage has been caused by the tenant in breach of their contractual obligations defined in the tenancy agreement. The agent is entitled to recover the costs to put them back in the position they would have been had the tenant carried out all contractual obligations
  • Loss of keys or other security device, a reasonable charge can be applied in the event of loss of keys etc 

Tenant Protection

xxxxx is a member of xxxxxx, membership no: xxxxxxx, which is a xxxxx protection scheme. 

xxxxxs is also a member of xxxxxxxxx, membership no: xxxxxxx, which is a redress scheme.

You can find out more details by contacting us directly.

Tenancy Deposit

A security deposit of a minimum of one month’s rental will normally be required. The deposit is held in a registered government deposit scheme to cover damage, breakages, and any other liabilities under the terms of your tenancy agreement.

Inventory & Schedule of Condition

Before the start of the tenancy, an inventory is prepared detailing the contents and condition of the property. You will be provided with a copy and so will the landlord.

When can I move in?

Once the tenancy has been signed and rents & deposits have cleared, the tenancy can proceed. You can now collect the keys to your new home. 

Can I have pets in my new home?

You must consult us prior to obtaining a pet.

What if I find any faults or repairs that need addressing?

If you find any problems with the property you are renting, you should contact us immediately. Once we have been informed of any issues/faults we will instruct the landlord and await their instruction.

Can I decorate the property?

You must consult us prior to carrying out any changes to the property. We will contact the landlord and await his permission.

Do I have to pay for Council Tax & Utility Bills?

As a tenant you will be responsible for any utility bills like water, gas, electric as well as council tax, unless there is a special arrangement with the landlord of the property. You will also be responsible for a TV license at the property, if you watch TV without a license you risk being fined. Please check the tenancy agreement details.

Do I need insurance, as a tenant?

The landlord of the property is responsible for insuring the building and any furnishings that come with it. You will be responsible for insuring your own contents/personal possessions stored within the rented property.

Can I run a business from the property I rent?

No. You must use the property solely for residential purposes unless specifically agreed in advance, in writing.

As a tenant, what am I responsible for?

As a tenant, you are responsible for:

  • Prompt payment of the rent
  • Prompt payment of gas, telephone, electricity, council tax
  • Reporting any damages to the property or furnishings within the property as soon as possible
  • Taking general good care of the property
  • Respect the needs of your neighbours