Article Overview
If you’re a tenant looking to move into a new home, or thinking about a change, this guide is designed to help you through each step of the process. You’ll be clued up with all the things you need to prepare, with helpful resources and information.
Introduction
Welcome to our Tenant Guide, designed to assist you throughout your tenancy journey. We are committed to providing a professional service, ensuring a seamless and secure experience for all our tenants.
Finding Your New Home
Our team of lettings experts is here to understand your needs, whether you’re relocating, moving in with a partner, or looking to upsize. We offer a range of properties and services in a variety of locations, and we can usually source something to suit your preferences. Contact us on the details provided at the end of this guide to see what we have available and arrange a viewing.
Application Process
1. Holding Deposit
To reserve a property, a refundable holding deposit equivalent to one week’s rent is normally required. It is required to demonstrate commitment while reference and right-to-rent checks are conducted. On successful completion of referencing, this holding deposit will be deducted from the total Security Deposit payable for the property, as advertised. A full explanation of terms will be provided to you via email.
2. Tenant Application Form
We need to collect some information from you so that we can complete the referencing process. This is done on an electronic form and once submitted, this goes directly to one of our referencing agents to begin processing.
3. References
Before offering a tenancy, we obtain credit, employer and previous landlord references through professional referencing agencies. An offer is subject to satisfactory references.
4. Proof of Identity
We are required by legislation to carry out Right to Rent checks, and to verify your identity. You must provide the relevant ID (e.g. Passport or Driving License) and proof of address (e.g., utility bill or council tax bill). Foreign nationals need to provide proof of residency, such as a residence permit or visa.
5. Security Deposit
We require a Security Deposit to be paid on completion of the referencing process. The maximum would be no more than the equivalent of 5 weeks’ rent and is protected in a government authorised protection scheme for the duration of your tenancy. The Holding Deposit you’ve already paid in step 1 will be deducted from the total Security Deposit.
6. Rent Payment
For the first month’s rent, we calculate the pro-rata amount for the number of days to the end of month in which you’re moving into the property. We then collect rent in full on the 1st of each following month in advance.
Tenancy Agreement
The tenancy agreement outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy. It’s essential to read and understand this document thoroughly before signing. Our team is available to clarify any queries you may have. We will also send you the relevant certificates and information for the property, a welcome pack, and a How to Rent guide at this stage. Once you’ve reviewed all of these documents, you will be asked to sign a document pack electronically.
During Your Tenancy
Rent Payments
Rent is due as specified in your tenancy agreement. Timely payments are crucial to maintain a good tenancy record. Late payments will incur interest at allowable rates.
Maintenance
We are committed to maintaining the property to a high standard. For any maintenance issues, please contact us promptly.
Communication
Open communication is vital. Feel free to reach out with any concerns or questions during your tenancy using the channels provided.
Ending Your Tenancy
When you decide to end your tenancy, please provide the required notice as stipulated in your agreement. We will guide you through how to prepare for this and the check-out process to ensure a smooth transition. Before committing to move elsewhere, if you’ve enjoyed living in one of our properties, why not look at what else we have available to see if we have anything to meet your needs?
Early Termination
In the case of a fixed term tenancy, this means before the end of the term. In the case of a periodic tenancy, this means not providing us with the required notice as stipulated in the tenancy agreement. In the event that you vacate the property in breach of the tenancy agreement or without the landlord’s consent in writing, you will remain responsible for all tenancy obligations and full reasonable costs of re-letting.
Still Got Questions?
If you’re unsure about anything and need to talk it through with us, we’d be happy to help. Give us a call on 0333 577 8123.
More Help:
Let’s make managing properties easier
Whether you’re looking for support, solutions, or a fresh approach, our team is here to help. Reach out today and discover how we can make things easier for you.
