Finding a Property

We maintain both a database of properties available to rent and a database with prospective tenants and their requirements. As properties become available, our first action is to contact waiting applicants on our database whose requirements match that of the property. Typically, properties to rent become available about two months before occupancy date so, where possible, it is advisable to start looking at your earliest convenience.

Viewings

Having identified a potentially suitable property we will then arrange a viewing on your behalf. This will be at a time to suit you, subject, of course, to the occupier’s permission. All viewings will be accompanied by a member of staff who will be able to provide advice and answer any questions you may have.

Offer / Application

Having then decided on a property, each applicant will need to complete one of our Application Packs. At this time, any details or requirements can be provisionally agreed, such as occupancy date and duration of the letting etc.

Upon application, a Reservation Fee will be required. This will be equal to half a month’s rent. Assuming the rental then proceeds, this will be deducted from the monies due before occupation. These monies are outlined in more detail in the Rent, Deposit and Administration / Agency Fees sections below. If we or the landlord decline your application then this fee will be refunded (minus the fee for the referencing and Credit Check which, unfortunately, are non-refundable). It will, however, not be refunded if you decide not to proceed for any reason or if the tenancy fails to progress due to incomplete or inaccurate information provided during the tenancy application.

References

We will take references on behalf of the landlord. Typically, these will include your employer and former landlord, with a Credit Check also being undertaken. Where a tenant is unable to meet the required income levels or pass the Credit Check, it may, depending on the circumstances, be possible to have a Guarantor agree to underwrite any rent liabilities.

Rent

Rents are normally quoted on a calendar month basis. In addition, the tenant is usually responsible for Council Tax, water, gas, electricity and telephone costs. Rents are payable monthly, in advance, by Standing Order (unless alternative arrangements are previously agreed upon). The first month’s rent is therefore due before taking occupation of the property.

Deposit

A deposit is also required prior to the occupation. This amount could vary, but is normally equal to one and a half month’s rent depending on the individual requirements of the landlord. Unless prior arrangements are made, we will protect this in accordance with current legislation until the end of the tenancy. We will advise you at the commencement of your tenancy how your deposit has been protected.

The deposit is held to cover any breakages, damages or other tenant liabilities. If we have been managing the property, at the end of the tenancy we will check the property (in the presence of the tenant, if requested) and assess any damages and deductions due. Please note that the deposit cannot be used to cover rent.

Tenancy Agreement

The Tenancy Agreement will be produced prior to the commencement of the tenancy. All tenants will need to read and then sign this agreement. The Tenancy Agreement is a complex and lengthy document. Should you wish, we can provide you with a draft copy prior to proceeding with your application. If you have any queries regarding the agreement then please speak to a member of staff.

Administration / Agency Fee

A fee will also be due prior to the start of a tenancy. This fee covers your share of administration costs, preparation of the Tenancy Agreement, any legal notices, plus check-in and check-out. Our fee for this is £82.25 (including VAT).

The fee for the required referencing and Credit Check is £60.00 (including VAT) per applicant. We are aware that many agencies charge additional fees under the guise of renewal fees and termination fees etc. Often these fees aren’t even disclosed until you get the Tenancy Agreement (at which point it is too costly for you to look elsewhere). We don’t believe that these practices are ethical, hence we don’t have any hidden fees. The only fees we will charge you, as a tenant, are shown above.