Step
1 - Finding your property
Once you have settled on the location and the type
of property that will fulfil your requirements a helpful tip at this initial stage is registering with an agent so
you can view properties coming to the market.
(why not register with us now http://www.bullockandlees.com/contact/).
When you have found your perfect property, you’ll need to get in touch with us to arrange a viewing. When the day of the viewing arrives, its
your opportunity to get to know the property inside out.
To get an idea of what to look for on the
day, we’ve put together this handy checklist:
- Assess how well the property has been maintained. Find out if the agent manages the property or if the Landlord manages the property so you know who to contact in the event maintenance is required.
- Note how much storage space there is and whether its adequate
for your needs.
- Ask about the maintenance of any common grounds. If the garden is included within the tenancy, make sure you find out if you need to maintain the gardens; some Landlords are happy for you to look after the garden if you are a dab hand at gardening, otherwise if you don't know your weeds from your flowers, best to ask the Landlord/Agent if they would consider maintaining the garden themselves!
- If there’s a space for your vehicle, find out where the space is located, if your vehicle fits and how it is accessed. Also make sure you find out if there are any restrictions on types of vehicles that may be parked in the space.
- Ask about transport links and the commute to work/schools.
- If you have children, check the property falls within your school catchment area.
- Ask the Landlord/Agent if they would accept pets. Some Landlords are happy to accept a pet, but most aren't. Be aware that if you are looking for a flat, many flat blocks will not allow dogs as it is part of the Freeholder lease agreement.
Step
2 – Securing a property
Now you have settled on your property you will be
required to fill out a reservation form to provide your prospective landlord and letting agent with
references, and also pay a referencing fee. See our fees http://www.bullockandlees.com/properties/to-rent/our-fees/
You’ll need:
- Proof of address and identity, usually a passport or driving licence or residency permit or utility bill
- Proof of earnings. This would be an employer's reference or if you are self employed, an accountants reference or a minimum of three months bank statements.
- Three years’ address history.
- A reference from your previous landlord if applicable. If you have not rented before a guarantor/character reference may be required.
Tip: Your letting agent will arrange for an inventory on your
behalf. It will determine the condition of the property before you
move in and out, and will protect you against being held liable for
any existing damage to the property, including fixtures and fittings. This
is a vital part of the renting process, and can dictate how much
deposit you’ll receive back at the end of your tenancy agreement. We would strongly advise that you ask for one to be undertaken.
Step 3 – Rent and deposit
Okay you are nearly there! Hopefully as long as
your references came back positive the next step will require you to secure the
property. You will need to pay the deposit before you move in, which is
usually 4 – 6 weeks’ rent. A deposit is payable in addition to the first
month’s rent, which will be taken on the day the tenancy begins. Most
landlords will ask you to set up a standing order to minimise
the risk of errors and late payments.
Your landlord/agent must then
register your deposit in a Tenancy Deposit Scheme. At Bullock & Lees, we use The Deposit Protection Scheme and the money is sent to and held by the DPS directly so you can be assured that your deposit is protected securely.
Step
4 – Tenancy agreement
So you have paid your rent and deposit now all is
left is to sign on the dotted line. Tip:
Ensure you initial each page of the agreement if you are not prompted by your
agent and read your contract!
A tenancy agreement will need to be drawn up
specifying both your rights and your landlord’s rights. The
responsibilities of both parties will be detailed within your
tenancy agreement, although some conditions may vary. You will need
to sign the tenancy agreement before you move into the property.
Main
points covered in a tenancy agreement:
- Your name, your landlord’s name, and the property address.
- Start date of the tenancy.
- Total duration of the tenancy.
- The amount of rent payable, how often and when it should be
paid, and when it can be legally increased.
- The amount of deposit paid.
- The agreement will also state other payments you’ll be
expected to make, including council tax, utilities, and
service charges.
- Your Landlords obligations and responsibilities, such as maintenance of common areas and to ensure adequate heating, water and fuel are supplied and safety checks are all undertaken as required by law.
- Your obligations as a tenant as regards to payment of rent, deposit, utilities and responsibilities in regards to fixtures, fittings and behaviour in a tenant-like manner.
- The notice period required if the tenancy is to be terminated by either you or your landlord.
Step
5 – Moving in
Well we made it, we are at the final stage
congratulations!
You have chosen your property, you have provided your
references, and you have paid your first month’s rent as well your deposit. You
have checked and signed your tenancy agreement and all references have been
undertaken. All that is left to do now is to collect your sets of keys and move
all your belongings in.
