Tenants Guide To Renting
Tenants Guide to Renting Property
If you are currently seeking a property to rent, check out our property listings page. If you have seen a property that you would like to view you can use the contact form on each of the individual property details pages to arrange a viewing or make an enquiry, or alternatively, you can give us a call.
If you have a specific type of property in mind we can take details of your requirements and contact you should a suitable property become available.
Once you have viewed a property and decided to proceed with the letting we will start the process of arranging the tenancy agreement, deposits, references etc...
References
Before commencing with the tenancy we will need to carry out credit reference searches and obtain satisfactory references from your employer and/or a previous or current landlord. There may also be instances when we require a personal reference or guarantor. Personal & photographic identification may also be required, such as a passport or driving license. Copies of a recent bank statement and/or recent utility bill would also be required before completion.
The Tenancy Agreement
Once the terms have been agreed by both parties and satisfactory references received, the relevant documentation will need to be signed by you.
Tenants Administration Fee
A holding deposit equal to one week's rent is required together with the application forms.
Inventory & Schedule of Condition
Before the start of the tenancy, an inventory is prepared to detail the contents and condition of the property. You will be provided with a copy and so will the landlord.
Deposit & Rent
Prior to the commencing of the tenancy, we will require a security deposit and the first month's rental payment in advance. Your deposit will be covered under The Deposit Scheme (TDS), which is a scheme accredited by the Government.
As part of the Housing Act 2004 the Government has introduced tenancy deposit protection for all assured shorthold tenancies (ASTs) in England and Wales where a deposit is taken. From April 6th 2007, all deposits paid under an AST have had to be protected within 14 calendar days of receipt by the agent/landlord.
Your deposit cannot be used to pay your rent.
Can I have pets in my new home?
You must consult us prior to obtaining a pet.
What if I find any faults or repairs that need addressing?
If you find any problems with the property you are renting, you should contact us immediately. Once we have been informed of any issues/faults we will instruct the landlord and await their instruction.
Can I decorate the property?
You must consult us prior to carrying out any changes to the property. We will contact the landlord and await his permission.
Do I have to pay for Council Tax & Utility Bills?
As a tenant, you will be responsible for any utility bills like water, gas, electric as well as council tax unless there is a special arrangement with the landlord of the property. You will also be responsible for a TV license at the property, if you watch TV without a license you risk being fined. Please check the tenancy agreement details.
Do I need insurance, as a tenant?
The landlord of the property is responsible for insuring the building and any furnishings that come with it. You will be responsible for insuring your own contents/personal possessions stored within the rented property.
Can I run a business from the property I rent?
No. You must use the property solely for residential purposes unless specifically agreed in advance, in writing.
As a tenant, what am I responsible for?
As a tenant, you are responsible for:
- Prompt payment of the rent
- Prompt payment of gas, telephone, electricity, council tax
- Reporting any damages to the property or furnishings within the property as soon as possible
- Taking general good care of the property
- Respect the needs of your neighbours
Priority Management Services Ltd is an accredited member of
- The Dispute Service
- The Property Ombudsman (Lettings)
- The National Approved Letting Scheme
- NALS Client Money Protection Scheme
Basic Fee Structures
Tenants
For each occasion when additional administration and/or inspection is required involved when rental payments are not received within seven days of the due date, when a cheque is not met on the first presentation or when complaints from residents, landlords, and relevant authorities necessitate such action: £50.00 including VAT
For additional administration involved where tenants vacate a property before the end of the initial agreed tenancy period: 50% of the monthly rental plus VAT
Should an applicant fail to keep a confirmed appointment to sign tenancy agreements after we have prepared the relevant documentation and supporting notices, a charge of £50 including VAT to cover the additional work will be payable in addition to any other amounts which may be due.
