We have compiled a short list of the important things that tenants should look out for when renting a property and also some things we normally require if you are going to let one of our properties.

The list is as follows:-

DEPOSIT: A deposit equivalent to the 1st months rent will normally be required to settle any claim for dilapidations, or any other breach of the tenancy agreement, which may arise, during the tenancy or at the termination of the tenancy. The deposit will be held by the Agents or the Landlord. If the Landlord is holding it, you should ensure that it is held in a separate bank account, as it is your money and not the Landlord’s.

INVENTORY: Make sure that you are present to check the inventory when you move in and out of the property so that you can agree to any amendments. We recommend that you keep a signed copy of both the checking in and checking out inventory. This document will form the basis of any compensations claimed against you by the landlord. 

REFERENCES: Make sure you have details ready of who is going to provide your references (for example, employers, previous landlord or agent, bank account etc) It is normal these days that a credit reference check will be carried out on each individual tenant and their guarantors. A small charge per applicant normally applies for this search.

RENT: Rent is usually paid a calendar month in advance. The first payment will be made by bankers draft/cheque and/or part cash.
Subsequent payments are normally made by standing order to the Agent or Landlord. If the payment of rent is late, interest is payable as stated in the tenancy agreement.

SAFETY CERTIFICATES: Make sure that you are provided with a Landlords Gas Safety certificate. If you are renting a furnished property that the furniture has fire safety labels on it (arm chairs, beds, cushions etc) and that a note is made on the inventory to that effect. The Landlord must also make sure that electrical wiring and appliances are safe.

TENANTS CONTENTS INSURANCE: Tenants must insure their own possessions, as this is not the Landlords responsibility. Please click here and we will arrange for someone to contact you to discuss having your possessions covered.

THE TENANCY AGREEMENT: When the Agents have received acceptable references after consultation with the Landlord, a Tenancy Agreement will be prepared for the Tenant’s signature. The cost. Release Clauses are not normally incorporated in a Tenancy Agreement so if you want a Release Clause, you must agree this before you sign up.
Before you arrange a date and time to sign the tenancy agreement, make sure that you (all tenants) have seen a copy and read it through, so that everyone understands their obligations. Ask questions to clarify anything that you are unclear on. All tenants must sign the tenancy agreement before they can move in. Keep your documents (such as insurance policy, copy of tenancy agreement and inventory) together in a file. Keep this file in a safe place

UTILITIES:It is normally a condition of the Tenancy that the services (i.e. electricity, gas and telephone) are transferred into the Tenant’s name for the duration of the Tenancy. If you require the telephone service you will need to contact British Telecom or service provider direct.