Do I need a tenancy agreement?

Yes. When you move into a property you do need documentation to prove that you are legally entitled to dwell in that property- this will protect you from any issues that may arise

Do I need a Guarantor ?

Yes all our tenancies are protected by Guarantors but they do not need to be a home owner. They do need to be aged between 25 & 65

What does a guarantor need to do?

If a tenant is not fully approved by the referencing process, they can ask a guarantor to support them as long as the landlord agrees. A guarantor (usually a parent or guardian) will agree to take responsibility for the rent if the tenant fails to pay. Guarantors are required to pay any rent arrears (if the tenant does not pay) and for any damages costing more than the deposit.

Do I need a deposit?

Generally speaking yes.

Our approach is to look at where you want to live, what finance you have available and negotiate with the landlord. The average deposit is equal to one months rent or a sum equal to five weeks rent. It is decreed that a deposit an an assured shorthold tenancy cannot be more than a sum equal to five weeks rent.

Are pets an issue?

Many landlords will not accept pets and it can be difficult. We would look for a reference from a previous landlord, we will also require confirmation that your pet is vaccinated and chipped. Many landlords will accept small pets only.

What if I can’t pay my rent?

The best thing to do is to contact your landlord immediately and open the pathway to negotiation. If your circumstances change in terms of income you can contact your local Housing Benefit team and make an appointment to see someone at your nearest Citizens Advice Bureau. Getting advice is the first step forward.

Who is responsible for repairs on a rental property? Do these need to be carried out within a certain time period?

Private residential landlords are responsible for ensuring that any property they let out is kept in an appropriate standard. This means that they are responsible for any issues that tenants may have with the condition of their property, heating etc. If the Tenants have caused any damage themselves, or it was caused by their error (such as an overflowing blocked toilet), most Tenancy Agreements will allow the Landlord to recover the cost of repair from the Tenant..If repairs are required they need to be carried out in a reasonable amount of time, unless they are hazardous to the Tenant such as; lack of heating, a leak, mould or running water in which case they must be done as soon as possible. Taking into consideration any effects of shielding or safety during Covid

Why do I need to be referenced?

The landlord needs to be sure that that their tenant won’t have any problems paying the rent on a monthly basis and that the tenant will take good care of their property.

Do I need to show ID?

As part of the referencing process and in order to satisfy Right to Rent legislation we will need to check certain ID and confirm a tenant is who they say they are. We will require a proof of residency (such as a recent utility or council tax bill) and proof of ID (passport and driving licence) for all individual proposed tenants.

What is an inspection?

Your landlord or letting agent will regularly schedule visits to the property. They want to make sure that the property is being looked after and maintained in a good condition, and they’ll be looking for any maintenance issues. So long as the Agent / Landlord provides you with written notice of this inspection you cannot unreasonably with hold access. Many Agents are undertaking virtual inspections during Covid.

Can I decorate or make changes to the property?

In most cases, a tenant can only decorate or make changes to the property with the express permission of the landlord or Agent. You must receive this permission in writing.

When can my landlord enter the property?

A landlord has to give the tenant notice before entering the property, unless it’s an emergency.