Tenants

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 licence.

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 and the landlord. There will be a renewal fee payable each year.

Tenants Administration Fee

From 1st June 2019, Tenants will no longer be charged Admin & Referancing Fees.

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.

Deposit & Rent

Prior to the commencing of the tenancy, we will require a deposit and the first rental payment, a month in advance. Your deposit will be registered under the tenancy deposit protection scheme (TDS), which is a scheme accredited by the Government.

As part of the Housing Act 2004 the Government has introduced tenancy deposit protection for all assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) in England and Wales where a deposit is taken. From April 6th 2007, all deposits paid under an AST have had to be protected within 14 calendar days of receipt by the agent/landlord.

The Letting Centre is a member of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme.  All deposits are protected through this scheme. The Tenancy Deposit Scheme has been established under the Housing Act 2004. It requires landlords to register details of the start and end of all Assured Shorthold Tenancies on which they take a deposit. The Dispute Service (TDS) runs this particular scheme and is required to supply summarised details of all tenancies to [the Department of] Communities and Local Government (CLG).

When can I move in?

Once the tenancy has been signed and rents & deposits have cleared, the tenancy can proceed. The inventory clerk will meet you at the property one the start date of the tenancy and give you the keys to the property.

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 advise 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 their 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

TENANT FEES - Updated For 1st July 2019

a) The Rent

b)  A refundable tenancy deposit capped at no more than five weeks' rent where the annual rent is less than £50,000, or six weeks' rent where the total annual rent is £50,000 or above.

c)  A refundable holding deposit (To reserve a property) capped at no more than one weeks rent.

d) Payments to change tenancy when requested by the tenant, capped at £50, or reasonable costs incurred if higher.

e) Payments associated with early termination of the tenancy, when requested by the tenant.

f) Payments in respect of utilities, communication services, TV license and council tax.

g) A default fee for late payment of rent and replacement of a lost key/security device, where required under a tenancy agreement.