Renting - what you need to know

Any prospective tenants will be required to complete an application form and must consent to going through a number of reference checks, which include credit, employer, affordability, character, previous landlord, etc. There will also be required to produce 2 forms of ID (Passport or Driving License and Utility Bill or Bank Statement). There are no fees payable by the tenant for the application form or reference checks. 

If the tenants would like to hold the property, a holding fee is required which is generally 1 week's rent. The holding deposit can only be held for 15 days unless both parties agree in writing to extend. There are certain circumstances when the holding deposit will not be returned, i.e. the applicant gave false or misleading information, they fail right to rent. And only one holding deposit can be held for a property at any one time. If the application is successful and tenancy agreement will be signed, the holding deposit must be returned. More information can be found at: <https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/tenant-fees-act>

This is separate to the holding deposit, and is otherwise known as a "damage" deposit. This deposit will be protected for the tenants within a protection scheme, and is required to be registered within 30 days of the Assured Shorthold Tenancy start date. More information can be found at: <https://www.gov.uk/deposit-protection-schemes-and-landlords>

Both the deposit and the 1st month's rent is required to be paid on or before the check-in date (before keys can be handed over). A standing order will be required to be set-up to pay the monthly rent, which should leave the account 3 days before the due date. At check-in, the tenant will be provided with a tenant pack which will include all the required paperwork such as a tenancy agreement, copy of the EPC, Gas Safety and Electrical Certificate, and inventory will be completed and signed. 

To end a tenancy, the tenant must write to us 60 days before the renewal date. Tenants will receive a vacating process which must be followed to ensure property is returned in an acceptable condition. Any damage to the property that is not considered fair wear and tear will be deducted from the deposit.  At check-out, the inventory will be followed and a check-out report will be completed. If the property is clean and in the same state as it was originally let, then the full deposit will be returned to the tenant.

Tenants have certain rights and responsibilities if they are a tenant in privately rented property. Please see the link for further information: <https://www.gov.uk/private-renting> 

How to rent Guide: <https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/how-to-rent>

 If you require any further information or have any questions, please feel free to contact us at: claire@delaceypropertymangement.co.uk