Information for Tenants
Our personnel are specially trained and equipped to assist Tenants to find properties to rent that will meet their needs. We maintain a database of properties available to rent and of prospective Tenants and their requirements. As properties become available, our first action is to contact waiting Tenants on the database, who’s requirements match the property. Typically, properties to rent become available about two months before occupancy date, so where possible it is advisable to start looking early.
Having identified a potentially suitable property, we will arrange a viewing. This will be at a time to suit you, and could be at evenings or weekends, subject of course to the Landlords or vacating tenants’ permission. All viewings will be accompanied by a member of staff, who will be able to provide immediate advice and answer any questions you may have.
Having decided on a property, you will need to complete an on-line application form, at this time any details or requirements can be provisionally agreed, such as occupancy date, duration of the letting, etc. On application, a holding deposit will be required, assuming the rental proceeds, this will be deducted from the fees due before occupation. If we, or the Landlord decline your application it will be refunded, it will however not be refunded if you decide not to proceed for any reason, or if the tenancy fails to proceed due to incomplete or inaccurate information provided in the tenancy application. Please refer to the Tenants Terms of Business for full details of how the holding deposit may be retained.
We will take references on behalf of the Landlord. Normally these will include your employer, any former landlord and a character reference. In addition, a credit check will be undertaken. It is important that you are aware of any adverse credit that is likely to appear on your credit report.
Where a Tenant is unable to meet the required income or credit checks, the Tenant may have a Guarantor agree to underwrite any rent liabilities. Any guarantor will also need to undergo the referencing procedure.
Rents are normally quoted on a calendar month basis. In addition, the Tenant is usually responsible for Council Tax, Water Rates, Gas, Electricity and Telephone/TV subscription costs. If any utilities are included in the rent, then this will be made clear prior to signing any agreement.
Rents are payable by standing order to our Company bank account monthly in advance, with the first month’s rent due before taking occupation of the premises.
A deposit is required prior to occupation this is normally equal to one month’s rent but may not be more than the equivalence of 5 weeks rent. Where we are managing the property, the deposit will be forwarded to a government authorised custodial body. We currently use the Deposit Protection Service (DPS). Where we are not managing the property any tenancy deposit which is required will be taken by the Landlord, who must also register the monies with an approved Government scheme.
The deposit is held to cover any breakages, damage, rent arrears or other tenant liabilities. Where we are managing, at the end of the tenancy we will check the property in the presence of the Tenant and assess any damages and deductions due. These cannot be deducted without your authorisation. Where we cannot reach an agreement, either party may use the services of the Independent Adjudicator to decide any claim made on behalf of the Landlord.
During the tenancy we carry out periodic inspection visits, should these bring to light any maintenance issues, we will (within the confines of our Management Agreement) recommend, oversee and account for any necessary repairs. However, it is the tenant’s responsibility to report in a timely manner, any maintenance issues that could cause damage to the property if not dealt with promptly. We will also check for issues with condensation/mildew, build-up of limescale to sanitary/kitchen ware and damage to floorings/walls that does not fall in within normal wear and tear. We will offer advice to you on how to remedy or prevent any such issues in the future.