Michael J. Fielding

Renting a Property

The initial requirements to be decided are the size of accommodation required, the rent to be paid, and the area in which the property is to be situated. The property index can be searched utilising any, or all 3 of their requirements, or by calling at our town centre office where individual needs can be discussed personally.

Accompanied inspections of any suitable property can be arranged and any questions asked can be answered whilst at the property.

Once a decision to rent has been made, full personal details of all persons occupying the property over the age of 18 will be required. References will be obtained through the specialist company Letsure.

Once a letting has been agreed the tenant will sign an Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreement and payment of a Bond and 4 weeks rent or one calendar months rent in advance will be required. Details of the names and telephone numbers of the gas and electric companies will be supplied and although up to date meter readings will have been taken it is up to the tenant to contact the utilities and arrange for the supply.

During the tenancy the tenants obligations can be summarised as follows:-

• Paying the rent promptly on the day specified in the tenancy agreement.
• Being responsible for the payment of the Council Tax, Water Charges, and any of the services used, i.e. gas, electric, telephone.
• The Landlord will insure the structure of the property, but the tenant will be responsible for insuring his own possessions.
• The tenancy will be for a fixed term so that the tenant will know how long the tenancy will last. If the Landlord does not wish to renew the agreement, 2 months Notice will be given before the end of the fixed term.
• The tenant has the responsibility to inform the Landlords Agent immediately if any repairs are necessary or if any problems arise.
• If the Landlord's Agent wishes to make an internal inspection, access will be granted at any reasonable time after at least 24 hours Notice in writing is given.
• When the tenant vacates, the property and any contents must be in the same condition as at the beginning of the tenancy. This condition also applies to the garden

When the keys have been handed back to the Landlords Agent, an inspection is made and in the vast majority of cases the Bond held is returned in full. On occasions it is necessary to have the house cleaned or repairs carried out in which case the cost of the work is deducted from the Bond held and receipts provided.