Tenants Guide to Renting

Why Rent?

Renting can be a great choice as many people prefer not to have the burdensome responsibilities that owning a property can bring. Whatever your reasons there are many factors to consider when choosing the right property. Some people prefer populated city centres some people prefer a quiet urban estate. Renting can provide a cost effective way of helping you decide where you want to live, help you raise that deposit or simply provide that home you want free from property repairs and upkeep.

Choosing an area

When choosing a property consider the following:

Budget – some areas are more expensive than others
Are facilities nearby such as supermarkets, doctors, dentists etc.
Popularity of an area
Commuting- are the transport links good
What are you looking for in an area – open spaces, pubs, schools?

TIP- Take the time one evening/weekend to visit the area and see how you feel about the location.

Finding a property

Make your search for the right property for you looking both on the internet via property portals, looking for letting boards and registering your details with local agents. Make sure you register your details accurately with local agents including your budget, the type of property, any extra requirements such as gardens or driveways. Speak directly to the agent to ensure they understand your needs this will enable you to get in front of the queue of tenants looking for properties.

Securing your rental property

The following is a simplified process of steps that will usually take place once you have found a suitable property.

ID and Reference Check
(taking into account your credit history, employment and past references from any previous landlords) 5 to 10 working days and will require a fee.

Tenancy Agreement
You will be required to sign an agreement based upon the monthly rental payments, notice periods and timeframe agreed between you and the landlord.

Deposit and First Month’s Rent
You are required to pay a deposit (in the event of damage, or failure to pay rent) plus one month’s rent upfront. (Allow clearance time)

Moving Date
Once you have a clear ID and reference check, you have signed the tenancy agreement and paid all deposits/rents you are given a moving date. (If not already agreed)

Transfer of services
including water, gas, electricity and council tax needs to take place

For a more detailed in-depth explanation please contact us on 01772 424999 or hit the call back button at the bottom of this page and we will call you.

Tenants Responsibilities

You must ensure you are aware that living in a rental property is slightly different from living in a property of your own. Here are a few points to consider:

Pets- come landlords do not allow them so check before you proceed
Smoking- again some landlords do not allow this
Maintenance- The landlord is responsible for electricity, heating and gas problems but they are not responsible for the bills
Bills- check who is responsible for what before proceeding. Usually a tenant is responsible for council tax, utility bills, TV licence, rent and general proper care of the property.
Insurance- you are not covered for your personal items nor for any possible damage to the landlords property. Ensure you get full specialist tenants insurance.

Renting through Solicitor Direct
Having a vast knowledge of the local area we enjoy being part of the community and helping landlords and tenants alike find the perfect partnership. We want to find you your DREAM home and will do our upmost to take you there. We have a great rental and legal team on board to make the journey from “looking to rent” to “home sweet home.”