Tenants Guide to Service & Fees
We have produced this guide to inform tenants of the procedures relating to a typical tenancy.  It is important that you read this carefully to smooth the process in securing your property.

Tenancy Application/Reference
When a suitable property has been found, all persons aged eighteen and over are required to complete an Application Form and named in the Tenancy agreement.  We will on behalf of our client The Landlord take up references which may include a bank reference for which your bank may charge a nominal fee, a credit reference, an Employer’s reference, previous Landlord reference, and accountant’s (if required).
A payment is required to indicate your commitment when you submit your application this will be held against the expenses and fees incurred.  If your application is successful this payment will be deducted from your overall fees. Please note this fee is non-refundable should your application be unsuccessful or withdrawn in certain circumstances, the details of which are set out in the confirmation letter.  Please note this payment is not a deposit.

Tenancy Agreement
Before the tenancy begins you will be required to sign a Tenancy Agreement this sets out the Landlord and the Tenants obligations for the Initial Tenancy and any further extension agreements.  Once the Tenancy Agreement is executed by you and the landlord it is binding.
Should you change tenants at any point during the tenancy you must inform us and, subject to your landlord’s agreement (which might include the need to take up new references) we will prepare new documents for signature of which fees will apply, (fees & Charges).

Security Deposit
Before your tenancy commences you will be required to pay a security deposit which will be a minimum of one and a half months rent or an agreed amount with your Landlord, this deposit will be held in a Government authorised Tenancy Deposit Scheme, held by the Landlord or Agent, Within 30 Days of paying your deposit your Landlord or agent is required to give you details about how your deposit is protected, this includes the contact details of the deposit scheme and what to do if there is a dispute at the end of the tenancy.  The deposit is held against any damages or expenses arising during your tenancy and will not be released until after you vacate the property, all rent has been paid up to date and we have written confirmation of any costs for damages from both parties.  No interest is payable to either.  This is to ensure you get all or part of your deposit back when you are entitled to it and any disputes will be easier to resolve.

When to Sign and Pay
Once acceptable references have been received and approved, a date will be agreed for the commencement of your tenancy, it is essential that you sign the Tenancy Agreement and pay the prior to the check in date. Type your paragraph here.

Payments
All initial fees will be detailed in the conformation letter and must be paid by Cash/Bankers Draft/Building Society Cheque/Bank transfer.

Inventory and Schedule of Condition
An inventory and schedule of condition of the property, its contents, furniture, fittings and effects will normally have been prepared.  This will be checked and agreed with you at the commencement of the tenancy.  It is important that you take care in agreeing the Inventory and schedule of Condition at this stage as it will form the basis of any claim for damages, by your Landlord, at the end of the tenancy, this will be referred to at the end of the tenancy. It is in your own interest that you are present at the check in and check out of the property.

Rental Payments
All Rent is payable in advance by standing order, Please note that all standing order payments should be made three days prior to your rent due date to allow for clearance.  Should you experience any financial problems during the course of the tenancy it is essential that you contact us immediately.

Tenants Obligations
You should be aware that the responsibility for the property rests with the tenant during the tenancy.  It is particularly important that any gas or electrical problems are reported immediately and the property is fully secured when you leave it unattended at any time.  During the winter months necessary steps must be taken to prevent the freezing of the water and heating systems.  In leasehold properties, mainly flats and maisonettes, the tenant will be bound by the rules and regulations affecting all the residents within the block, contained in the head lease.

PROPERTY VISITS
PETS

Should you wish to keep one or more pets at the property we will negotiate this with your Landlord and include a specific clause within the tenancy agreement.

UTILITY

It is the tenant’s responsibility to pay all the utilities during their tenancy direct to the suppliers.

INSURANCE

The tenant is responsible for insuring his/her own personal effects and furnishings.  Should you require insurance please contact the Agent.

BURGLARY

Should the property be burgled during the tenancy you should contact the police and the agent immediately.

The Agents Obligations

Our obligations will vary depending on which of the following services we provide for your Landlord:                             
Letting only of the property.
Let the property and collecting the rent.
Let and manage the property
You will be advised which of the above applies to you prior to your tenancy commencing but should you need further details regarding a specific issue please contact the local office.

On Moving In

When you move in you will receive a Tenants welcome pack containing:
Your Assured Short Hold Tenancy Agreement
Energy Performance certificate
Inventory
Standing Order Mandate (To be completed and handed to your Bank)
Utility Information
Gas Safety Certificate
Customer Care Information
Insurance information
Who to contact during your tenancy
Security Deposit Information



Copyright © Carol Cotterell. All rights reserved.