If you have any other questions, or
are unsure about any of the answers below regarding rented property,
please dont hesitate to call us.
Why do I have to pay
a deposit when I rent?
The deposit is six weeks’ rent is there to ensure that
when you move out the property will be left in good condition.
An exit inspection is carried out when you leave the property and
the cost of any repairs/cleaning which are deemed to be your responsibility
will be deducted from the deposit.
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Do I have to stay for a certain amount
of time?
Yes. You are legally required to pay rent
until the end of the tenancy agreement. You can give notice
to end your tenancy before then, but you will have to pay rent
for the time that’s
left, even if you have moved out.
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Landlords often ask
for non-smokers. I do smoke but always go outside – I never
smoke indoors. Should I classify myself as a smoker or non smoker?
If in doubt, just ask us. Some of our
landlord clients will be fine with you smoking outside, others
will insist on non-smokers only.
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Why do so many landlords
prefer not to allow pets or children?
It’s a big decision for someone
to let out a home. For many landlords, the property is the
most valuable single thing they own. The simple answer is that
however careful you are, a house with pets or children living
in it is more vulnerable to damage, and many landlords try
to avoid this risk.
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What does “jointly and severally” mean?
This phrase appears in tenancy agreements
where there’s
more than one tenant. It means that you are all, as a group,
responsible for making sure the rules aren’t broken,
so if one tenant fails to pay their rent, the others are legally
responsible for the shortfall.
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Who will pay for the utilities,
services and TV licence?
The tenant is responsible for bills like gas, electricity and
water, as well as for council tax and the TV licence.
Many people aren't aware that their TV licence doesn't automatically
move with them when they move house. If you don't notify TV Licensing
of your new address, you could end up being unlicensed in your
new home, even if you paid for a licence at your old address.
Anyone who watches TV without a licence risks prosecution and
a fine of up to £1,000, so it's worthwhile checking that
you're covered. It's easy to update your details. Simply call
the TV Licensing office on 0844 800 6722 and follow the instructions.
They will ask you for your TV licence number and new address.
It only takes a minute or two to transfer your licence and then
you'll be licensed to watch TV in your new home.
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Do I need
insurance?
The landlord is responsible for insuring
the building and any furniture that it comes with, but you
must insure your own possessions. These won’t be covered
by the landlord’s insurance
if you suffer a break in or other loss or damage.
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What are
my obligations as a tenant?
You and your landlord both have rights and obligations. Some
are set out explicitly in your tenancy agreement. The main things
you should be aware of are repairs, use of the property and access
for the landlord.
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Who is responsible for repairs?
You must
use the property in what’s called 'a tenant
like manner', meaning that you will be responsible for any
repairs that are your fault .You must pay for anything that
is broken or damaged in the property during the tenancy. It
is always deducted at the end of the tenancy.
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Use of the
property
You must use the property solely for residential
purposes and not run a business of any kind from the premises.
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Access
for the landlord
The landlord will need to visit from time to time to do repairs
and safety checks, and to check that the building’s in
good condition. You must allow them access so they can do this,
but they should always let you know first. The landlord will
have a set of keys to the property, but they should never use
these without your consent except in an emergency.
