OUR TEN STEP GUIDE TO RENTING
Renting has become an increasingly significant part of life in the United Kingdom and many people are familiar with the process, however you may be looking to rent for the first time and be wondering how it all works. The information on this page will give you a brief guide to the process of renting a property through a letting agent.
STEP 1 - Before you begin
Before you begin your search, you must decide how much rent you can afford, how much accommodation the property must have and which location will suit you best. Whilst renting generally gives far more flexibility than home ownership, the process involves both time and money so careful thought should be given to your requirements before you commit to a property.
If you are uncertain of how much you can afford, we recommend using the affordability calculator on the Money Advice Service website.
Step 2 - HOW TO SEARCH
Most reputable letting agents advertise their properties on the most popular property portal, Rightmove. We recommend you activate notifications for when property meeting your criteria becomes available. Renting is popular and property can be let very quickly. These notifications will help you to avoid missing out.
It can also be beneficial to register with local letting agents, because sometimes you may be notified of suitable property before it is advertised. If you would like to be kept updated when our properties become available, please register with us.
STEP 3 - ARRANGE A VIEWING
Once you have found a property which is of interest, contact the letting agent to arrange a viewing. You will need to provide a few contact details and will likely be asked a few questions to determine if you would be suitable. These questions could include the length of tenancy which you require, who would be occupying the property and whether you have pets.
It is advisable to suggest at least two or three different times which you are available, as in some cases your preference may not be possible. Some properties may still be occupied by the current tenant and their wishes must also be considered. For our opening hours, please see our contact page.
STEP 4 - INITIAL checks AND HOLDING DEPOSIT
At this stage you will be asked to provide identification and pay a holding deposit equivalent to one weeks rent. References are obtained from a third party referencing agent, current landlord/managing agent and employer (if applicable). Furthermore, there will be a right to rent check and a credit check.
Sometimes a guarantor may be required. If so, the same checks will apply to the person(s) who are acting as your guarantor.
Please click here for information relating to holding deposits.
You will be informed whether your application has been successful.
step 5 - paperwork
If the references are successful, the next stage is to complete the formal paperwork. The letting agent will prepare a Tenancy Agreement and this will outline both your and the landlords contractual obligations. It is important to read this carefully and raise a query if you have any concerns. You will also need to pay your security deposit (if you have not already done so) and pay your first months rent.
At Pied-à-terre Property, all deposits are held by the Deposit Protection Scheme.
STEP 6 - MOVING IN
Just before you move in, you will be provided with an inventory/condition schedule. This document details the condition of the property and any damage, plus the details of any items, equipment and fittings at the property which belong to the landlord. The purpose of this to protect both you (the tenant) and the landlord. When your tenancy ends the property will be inspected and any defects/damage noted. The inventory/condition schedule proves whether any issues noted were caused by the tenant or pre-existing.
We strongly recommend that you purchase contents insurance, because in most cases the landlord's insurance will only cover the building,
You can now move into your new home!
If you have a dog, we recommend clicking here for a helpful article on how to make the move as stress free as possible.
STEP 7 - DURING THE TENANCY
During the tenancy, your property could be managed by either the landlord or the agent. You will be informed which applies so that you know who to contact should any issues arise.
You must pay your rent on time and look after the property. Failure to do so will put you in breach of your tenancy agreement and at risk of losing your home.
The landlord and/or managing agent must do the following:
Insure the building
Pay the service charge (where applicable)
Allow you to live as undisturbed as possible
Deal with repairs and maintenance promptly
Keep all services in working order
Have any gas appliances checked annually
Provide instructions for all appliances they have provided at the property
Provide smoke and co2 alarms, fitted in compliant locations
If you stay in the property for several years, the landlord should consider undertaking general redecoration and updating
In additional, you must also do the following:
Pay your council tax
Pay your utility bills
Pay your TV license
Keep the property in good order
Notify the landlord/managing agent of any required maintenance
Maintain the gardens (if applicable)
Keep the windows clean (may not apply to apartments)
Keep the property secure
Dispose of rubbish
Not cause unnecessary disturbance to neighbours
Ventilate the property to avoid condensation and mould
“You must pay your rent on time and look after the property. Failure to do so will put you in breach of your tenancy agreement and at risk of losing your home.”
STEP 8 - GIVING NOTICE
When the time comes to move out, you will need to give notice to your landlord/managing agent. The amount of notice which both the tenant and landlord must give will be detailed in your tenancy agreement. Please note that the notice period is often governed by your 'rent due date.'
STEP 9 - MOVING OUT
Your landlord/managing agent will arrange a 'check out' appointment to inspect the property. It is preferable you are present so that any issues can be discussed.
All rent payments must be up to date, including the final month. Your security deposit cannot be used as your final month's rent
You must remove all of your belongings and ensure the property is clean and tidy. The property should be left in the same condition as when you moved in, although some 'reasonable wear and tear' is normal. Please note that accidental damage, including issues such as stained carpets, is considered to be damage, not 'reasonable wear and tear'
Remember to re-direct your mail to your new address. Note that you should request the direction several days before it needs to begin
Take meter readings prior to moving out
Ensure there is not excessive amounts of rubbish in the bins. If you are disposing of household items, please take these to your local waste recycling centre
Ensure the gardens are in the same condition as when you moved in (if applicable)
Return all keys to the managing agent/landlord
Cancel any media services
Cancel your rent standing order
STEP 10 - RETURN OF YOUR DEPOSIT
The final condition of the property is compared to the initial inventory from when you moved in. You should leave the property in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for 'reasonable wear and tear,' in order to ensure that your deposit is promptly returned in full.
If the property requires repairs or cleaning, or any items stated in the initial inventory are missing, a deduction to cover the costs will need to be agreed. At Pied-à-Terre Property, our tenants deposits are held with the Deposit Protection Scheme who can intervene should there be difficulty in reaching an agreement.
We hope the above information is helpful to you, however should you have any questions about the process please contact us.