Information for tenants

Finding a property

Our personnel are specially trained and equipped to assist tenants to find properties to rent that will meet your needs. We maintain a database of properties available to rent and of prospective tenants and their requirements. As properties become available, our first action is to contact waiting tenants on the database, who’s requirements match the property. Typically, properties to rent become available about two months before occupancy date, so where possible it is advisable to start looking early. Properties to let can be found on the major property portals as well as on this site.

Viewings

When you have identified a potentially suitable property, we will arrange a viewing. This will be at a time to suit you, and could be daytime, evenings or week-ends, subject of course to the landlords permission. All viewings will be accompanied by a member of staff, who will be able to answer any questions you may have, provide immediate advice and application forms.

Offer / Application

Having decided on a property, you will need to complete a written application form. We refer all applications to the landlord who makes the final decision when a holding deposit will be requested. Assuming the rental proceeds, this will be deducted from the deposit due before occupation. It will however not be refunded if you decide not to proceed for any reason, or if the tenancy fails to proceed due to incomplete or inaccurate information provided in the tenancy application.

Assessments

A tenant assessment for each person over the age of 18 will be carried out. Normally these will include contacting your employer and any former landlord etc. In addition a credit check will be undertaken (you can obtain a free copy of your credit file here). A charge will be made for this assessment.

Note: as a general rule, your share of the monthly rent should not exceed 40% of your gross (before tax) income. The minimum amount that a tenant needs to earn can be calculated by multiplying the monthly rent by 30. For self employed applicants, we will need to contact an accountant or require your most recent SA302. Where a Tenant is unable to meet the required income or credit checks, in some cases the tenant may have a guarantor agree to underwrite any rent liabilities and the same criteria apply to the guarantors income. Please contact us for further information.

Rent

Rents are normally quoted on a calendar month basis. In addition, the tenant is usually responsible for Council Tax, Water Rates, Gas, Electricity and Telephone costs.

Rents are payable by standing order (unless alternative arrangements are agreed in advance) to our bank account monthly in advance, with the first month's rent due before taking occupation of the premises.

Deposit

A deposit (or 'bond') is required prior to occupation. This is normally equal to one months rent but check a member of our staff. Where we are managing the property, the deposit is held by the Deposit Protection Service.

The deposit is held to cover any breakages, damage, or other tenant liabilities. Where we are managing, at the end of the tenancy we will check the property in the presence of the tenant and assess any damages and deductions due.

Please note that the deposit cannot be used by the tenant to cover rent.

Administration / Agency Fees

A fee is due to us prior to the start of the tenancy to cover the tenant's share of administration costs, including preparation of the tenancy agreement.