    
Taking a property
HomeLets accompany all viewings and assist with the formalities at the start of your tenancy. A deposit or accelerated rent and the non-refundable documentation charge covering references, credit searches and any related administration, must be paid in full for each tenant. The application forms must be completed in full. Photographic ID is required and foreign nationals must provide proof of permission to reside in the UK. References must be satisfactory and if you are a student or do not have a regular income, a guarantor may be required. Once your application has been accepted, we will prepare your tenancy agreement. Each person over the age of 18 who will be living at the property will need to be named on the agreement and will be required to complete the full tenant application process.
Properties
Properties are let 'as seen' so if you are in any doubt as to what is included, please establish this upon application. We request that all contact during the tenancy be made in writing or by e-mail; however urgent issues should be reported immediately by telephone.
Terms, agreements and rent
An AST (assured shorthold tenancy agreement) is a legally binding contract; once you have signed it, you are bound by its terms. An AST is usually set up for an initial fixed term of 6 months and renewed on a month-by-month “periodic” basis. Your tenancy is secure for at least the fixed term of your tenancy; however should you wish to move out earlier, you will incur a breach fee. After the fixed term, you are asked to give one month’s notice to end your contract, and your landlord must give you two. Once an AST is been granted, we will take the first month's rent (due on or before the start date of the tenancy) and organise future rent payments. Rent (exclusive of utilities and council tax) is due in accordance with your tenancy agreement, which may involve a part payment during the first month.
Deposit or Accelerated Rent
You will usually be asked to pay two month’s rent in advance as well as ‘key protection’ which is refunded when you return all keys. Key protection is solely for the safe return of keys; it must not be misinterpreted as a deposit. Any damages to the property will be billed to the tenants as a separate matter and, if necessary, the small claims court may be involved.
Some landlords still request deposits to protect the property against any breach of contract. In this case, you will only pay one month’s rent up front along with the deposit, though there will be no key protection.
Check-in and check-out
You will be given a schedule of condition and/or inventory when you sign your contract and a check-in appointment will be arranged. These must be carefully checked, signed and agreed by both parties.
At the end of your tenancy you should refer to your tenancy agreement and your schedule of condition to ensure you meet all of your contractual obligations. At your final inspection the condition of the property will be recorded and compared with your check-in notes and schedule of condition.
NB: This guidance must not be misconstrued as contractual or binding and may vary depending on factors such as your landlord, the property and your own personal circumstances. If you require clarification on any of the matters above, please contact us. |
