Guide to Renting

Decide on the property you need and the area i.e. number of bedrooms, timescale and price for the rental.

It is important to take a multifaceted approach in finding a suitable property. Ensure you are registered with competent local agents with good reputations. A good agent will understand your requirements and match you to suitable properties. Often properties will be listed on property portals such as Rightmove, Zoopla, and OnTheMarket to name a few.

Viewings are typically accompanied by an experienced negotiator who is on hand to guide you through the rental process.

Once you have found a suitable property you will have the opportunity to place an offer. You will usually need to fill out an offer form and pay a 1 week holding deposit, which will secure the property once the offer has been accepted.

The offer form must detail all your offer requirements. Once the terms of the offer have been agreed you will be bound to the offer up to the value of the holding deposit.

The holding deposit will not be refundable if you change your mind. You will only be entitled to a holding deposit refund if the landlord withdraws from accepting your offer.

On acceptance of your offer, we will collate your references and conduct Right to Rent checks. Both you and your landlord will receive draft contracts and an invoice will be raised for a 5-week deposit to be lodged and protected with a deposit protection scheme.

The first instalment of rent will also be paid at this point, which is usually one month in advance. Sometimes more rent is payable in advance, for instance, if you are not in full time employment and unable to provide a guarantor. Students often pay six months rent in advance.

It is imperative we are in cleared funds and contracts have been signed prior to handing over keys to you. Please therefore make sure this is taken into consideration, particularly if funds are being transferred internationally. It is also imperative you provide the requisite identification*

A check in inventory will be taken immediately prior to you moving into the property. This is undertaken by an independent inventory clerk at the landlord’s expense and will incorporate meter readings. A similar report will be taken when you leave the property and the two reports will be used in the event of a deposit dispute. You will have the opportunity to comment on the report if you disagree with any part of it.

You will be provided with all the relevant documentation pertaining to your tenancy, including an Electrical Performance Certificate, a Gas Certificate (if the property is connected to gas) and Prescribed Information relating to your deposit. Full move in funds must be settled prior to move in. You will at this point usually be given keys to the property.