Tenants frequently asked questions

ALL APPLICANTS FOR A RESIDENTIAL TENANCY MUST BE:

1. Over 18 years of age.

2. Able to read and sign the application form and Tenancy Agreement

3. In regular permanent full time employment and/or are able to show financial ability to pay the rent.

4. Able if required to provide an adequately funded UK based guarantor.

5. Able to view the property internally (normally with a member of our staff).

Do you have an Agency Fee?

Yes - This fee covers the referencing of tenants, preparation of two copies of the new tenancy agreement, providing inventory, registering the deposit with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, setting up the Standing Order, informing utility providers, and any other administration costs incurred. This fee is non refundable if your references prove to be unsatisfactory or you decide to withdraw from the application. Please contact the office for our current list of fees.

Do I have to complete any forms?

Yes - We have an application form that ALL applicants must complete in FULL and sign. It is simple and self-explanatory. In event of any doubt we are here to assist. It is usually recommended that you come into the office.

Will I need references?

Yes - We use a professional referencing agency and our form requires employment and bank details as well as other information. Our staff will explain our reference checking procedure to you if requested. If you are self-employed we will need your accountants details. This does not apply if you are not in full time employment in the UK or have a satisfactory UK based guarantor.

What happens if I do not have a UK income or UK guarantor?

You will need to pay up to 6 months' rent plus the damage deposit in advance, and, if you wish to extend the tenancy beyond the initial period please discuss this with a member of staff.

How much will I need to pay before I can move in?

The amount required before the tenancy can commence is shown against each property on our list and comprises one month's rent plus the Damage Deposit (unless you fit the criteria in the previous question). The payment must be made by cleared funds either cash, or Bankers draft at the time of signing the tenancy agreement, or by online bank transfer prior to occupation. We cannot accept personal cheques.

How will the rent be paid?

The rent must be paid monthly in advance by one Standing Order. The damage deposit is not rent and cannot be used as such. Remember you pay rent for the whole term of the tenancy agreement.

Who pays for the utilities such as Gas, Electricity, Council Tax, Water and TV licence?

Normally you pay these as the tenant, however in some cases the Council Tax or water charges may be paid by the landlord. This will be shown against the property on the property list. We will read the meters and advise the utility companies soon after you move in but PLEASE NOTE: you will need to contact British Telecom to have the telephone connected.

Am I committed to rent the property for a fixed length of time?

Yes - all our tenancies are for a fixed term, normally a minimum of 6 months but it may be for a longer period. The period will be discussed and agreed with you and the landlord before the tenancy is created.

Will there be FINANCIAL penalties if I wish to leave the property before the completion of the term of the tenancy agreement?

Yes - You must appreciate that you are signing an agreement to stay in the property and pay the rent for the whole duration of the tenancy, if you think you may have to leave part way through your tenancy please speak to a member of our staff WITHOUT DELAY and we will clarify the situation.

How will I know what furniture and fittings will be in the property?

When you view a property please ask a member of staff at the time what fixtures and fittings will be in the property, we have full inventories and can discuss your requirements. Do not assume that when you view a property that what you see will be left in the property; they may belong to the current tenant. In most cases 'furnished' does not include cutlery, crockery, TV or bedding (duvet, pillows etc.).

If I wish to share a house with others how many of us can jointly apply for a property?

No more than four sharers are permitted. If there are more than four of you wishing to share please contact us and we can discuss your situation. If you are sharing with others please read the “Jointly and Severally” question and answer below.

Will there be any restrictions on the use of the property?

There may well be as you are applying for a RESIDENTIAL tenancy, this does not allow business to be carried on from any premises. Please ask about the restrictions BEFORE making an appointment to view a property.

I have pets, will this be a problem?

Yes - If you have pets please mention this BEFORE making an appointment to view a property. In most cases pets are not allowed. This will avoid any disappointment.

I see "SUBJECT TO CONTRACT" on letters, what does it mean?

Until the Tenancy Agreement has been signed and executed all negotiations are 'Subject to Contract'. This allows either party to withdraw from the proposed tenancy.

What does "Jointly and Severally" mean?

Where there is more than one tenant on the Agreement, all tenants are "Jointly and Severally" liable. This means that each tenant is responsible for the whole Agreement and rent, not just a share. Be VERY SURE about the people with whom you agree to share before you sign any tenancy agreement . If they leave YOU will have to pay ALL the rent and ALL the bills.

Who will manage the property and whom do I contact if I have problems after I move in?

This may be Portfolio Properties or it may be the Landlord. If this does concern you please ask prior to making the appointment. We will advise you of the management arrangements before any Tenancy details are finalised.

Can I install a satellite dish

In all cases permission needs to be obtained from the Landlord.