Tenant Services
The following are the most frequently asked points when Tenants are considering renting a property: -
1. Property Listings
All our properties are listed on our updated website with full property details and colour photographs. Each property is linked to Map Quest giving its exact location.
2. Viewing Arrangements
All viewings are by pre-arranged appointment. We are able to accompany you on viewing at a property during our normal office hours, otherwise viewings will be arranged with the Landlord or the current tenant at their convenience.
3. Application for a Tenancy/References
Applicants wishing to take up a Tenancy will be required to complete a confidential application form to provide personal and financial details. It is essential that you have all the information and supporting documents with you when completing the form. You will need:
- The full address of your current property including the postcode.
- A contact name, address and telephone number of current letting agent or Landlord (if applicable).
- If less than three years at your current address, a list of all addresses for the last three years with postcodes and dates of occupation.
- The full company name, address and postcode of your employer (or accountant if you are self employed) along with a contact name, telephone/fax number or email address.
- Your bank details including account number and sort code.
The completed application form will be forwarded to a credit rating agency for grading and we normally receive a reply within 3 working days. A charge of £40.00 + VAT will be made per applicant. Should the Tenancy not proceed after references have been checked, the charge is NON-REFUNDABLE.4. Administration Charges
An administration fee of £65.00 + VAT is charged to the Tenant for the preparation of the Tenancy Documents and other administration costs.
5. First Months Rent & Deposit
All rents are payable in advance by standing order only and due on the same day of the month as the commencement of the Agreement. The first months rent and security deposit (equivalent to 1 ½ months rent) are payable by bankers draft or building society cheque on or prior to the day of occupation. Personal cheques can only be accepted if paid 7 working days in advance of occupation. The deposit may not be used at any time for payment of rent.
6. Tenancy Agreement
The Tenancy Agreement is a legally binding document between the owner of the property (The Landlord) and you (The Tenant). You should read the Agreement carefully and ensure you fully understand it prior to signing. If there is anything that is not understood, it is recommended you take advice from either the Citizens Advice Bureau or from a solicitor.
7. Stamp Duty
For a Tenancy Agreement to be produced and legally accepted by a court it must first be stamped by the Stamp Office. The Landlord will arrange for the stamping of the counterpart agreement and, to have the original stamped, Tenants should contact the Stamp Office Helpline on 0845 6030135 or information is available at www.inlandrevenue.gov.uk/so. Payment for this is the Tenants responsibility.
8. Utility Supplies and Council Tax
All tenancies are exclusive of Council Tax, Water Rates, Gas, Electricity and Telephone charges (unless otherwise stated) and Tenants will be responsible for payment. We will advise the utility suppliers and the Local Authority of your occupancy but we are unable to undertake the transfer/connection of telephone services. Tenants should request telephone service from their chosen provider and must advise the Landlord or managing agent of the telephone number.
9. Insurance
The Landlord is responsible for insuring the property and any contents that are left in the property. You must insure your own belongings. The Landlord and ourselves cannot and will not be held liable for any loss suffered by the Tenant whatever the circumstances. We can recommend HomeLet, feel free to visit their website for a competitive quote for your personal contents and accidental damage to the Landlord’s fixtures and fittings if you wish.
10. Domestic Pets
Domestic pets are not permitted except if agreed in writing. The carpets must be professionally cleaned, sanitised, deodorised and anti bacteria/flea treated on vacating the property. The original invoice will have to be supplied to confirm this has been done.
11. Faults and Repairs
Many Landlords have service contracts and preferred contractors. If there is a problem with the property you are renting you must inform the Landlord or the managing agent. Failure to do so may mean that you are liable for any deterioration or damage resulting from any delay. You must not instruct a contractor to undertake any work – if you do it will be at your own expense.
12. Declaration
Should you wish to make any changes to the property including decoration you must obtain written permission from the Landlord or managing agent before any work commences.
13. Safety
When smoke or carbon monoxide detectors are fitted in the property you have an obligation to ensure that they are checked regularly, kept in good working order and batteries replaced when needed. If you become aware of a fault you must immediately notify the Landlord or managing agent immediately. If the property has either natural or bottled gas the law requires an annual Landlords Gas Safety Report. This will be arranged by the Landlord or managing agent
14. The Garden
It is a requirement of our Letting Agreement that the Tenant keeps the grass cut, border and paths weed free and shrubs trimmed.
15. Vacating
You must vacate the property on the agreed date (usually midday on the last day of the Agreement). Your Landlord or an independent Inventory Clerk will make an appointment to meet you at the property to carry out the “check out“ inspection, take meter readings and receive all the keys. You will have to supply a forwarding address for the return of any deposit.
16. Return of Deposit
With the exception of fair wear and tear, any damage or deterioration will be corrected and the cost deducted from the deposit. The deposit is refundable only after you have vacated the property and provided that:
Your rent is paid up to date. All bills relating to the property/tenancy have been paid. The property has been well maintained and thoroughly cleaned including the carpets upon vacation. All items listed in the inventory are present and in satisfactory condition. We hope this answers any questions you may have. Please feel free to Contact Agent if you have any other queries or would like to discuss any further information.
WE HOPE TO BE OF ASSISTANCE TO YOU IN THE NEAR FUTURE.