Tenants Info
Tenant’s Information
Helping you find the perfect property
Our personnel are fully trained in assisting tenants to find properties to rent that will precisely meet their requirements. We maintain a database of properties available to rent and also of prospective tenants and what they want from their new home. As properties become available, our first action is to contact waiting tenants on the database, whose requirements match the property. Typically, properties to rent become available about 1-2 months before occupancy date, so where possible we advise tenants to start looking early.
Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST)
The majority of tenancies we create take the form of an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST). This is a type or sub-group of an assured tenancy, but with the AST, the landlord has the right to recover the property at the end of the fixed term, provided that the proper notices have been served on the tenant. An AST is the most common form of tenancy granted today and most tenancies automatically become one unless the landlord specifies otherwise.
It is essential that you thoroughly read and understand all of the clauses contained within the tenancy agreement prior to commencement, as there are many obligations that you will be expected to understand and abide by contained within this contract (such as paying the rent and maintaining the property).
Valid photo identification and proof of address
In order for us to verify your identity you must be able to provide us with current photo identification, for example a drivers licence or passport. This must be an original identification document that we can copy and attach to your application. We also require proof of your current address in the form of a recent utility bill or bank statement (within last 3 months), tenancy agreement or driving licence.
Application, Charges and References
Having decided on a property, you will need to complete a written application form. At this time any details or requirements can be provisionally agreed, such as commencement date and duration of the initial fixed term.
All tenancy applications are evaluated in the same manner, and each adult applicant (over the age of 18 years) must voluntarily provide us with information, which will enable us to conduct references and a credit report. Any false or incomplete information will result in the denial of your application. We will verify the information provided on each tenancy application through our own screening process and with the assistance of an independent tenant-screening firm. We require a sum of £30 plus VAT per applicant to pay for the referencing and credit report. If an express reference is required, prices will vary depending on the rental amount. These reference fees are non-refundable charges. We also require a £195 plus VAT Administration fee per property which also acts as a holding deposit whilst references are being taken.
Income
The total combined monthly gross income of all tenancy applicants in a given property must be approximately two and a half times the monthly rent. Only income that can be verified will count. Full-time students are welcome if the total applicants’ combined income is sufficient or they have a guarantor. You must provide proof of source of income if unemployed or two/three years of accounts if self-employed.
Joint tenancies
It is important to remember that all adult tenants are joint and severally liable. This means that each tenant can be held responsible for the payment of all funds due, regardless of ability to pay. Agreements must be in the names and signed by all tenants over the age of 18 who will be residing in the property.
Credit history
You must be able to demonstrate fiscal responsibility. If you have any unpaid debts, a pattern of late payment or County Court Judgements (CCJs) against you, then your application may be declined.
Rental history
Each applicant must be able to demonstrate a pattern of meeting their previous rental obligations, leaving prior properties in good condition if they have rented before. If you have ever been evicted for violating a lease then your application may be declined.
Guarantors
If you do not meet one or more of the above criteria, you may be able to qualify for a tenancy if you have a third party who can guarantee your tenancy agreement. The guarantor must also pass the same application and screening process, must be a homeowner and reside in the UK for the duration of the tenancy.
Rent
This is due one month in advance payable by bankers draft or cash for the first month only (personal cheque is acceptable if funds clear by commencement date). Subsequent payments are to be made by monthly standing order from one bank account.
Security deposit
A security deposit equivalent to one and a half month’s / 6 weeks rent is required prior to occupation. Where Petty Son and Prestwich are managing the property then this will be transferred to the The Deposit Protection Service within 14 days of the start of the tenancy and held by them until the tenancy ends. Please visit www.depsositprotection.com for further information.
The deposit is held to cover any breakages, damage or other tenant liabilities. Where we are managing, at the end of the tenancy we will check the property thoroughly against the inventory and assess any damages and deductions due. Provided there are no disputes over unfair wear and tear, damage or dirt, rent outstanding or unpaid utility bills, the deposit will be returned to the tenant within 14 days of the end of the tenancy. Under no circumstances is the security deposit to be used as part or all of the last month’s rent.
Council tax and utilities
Rental properties are usually granted on an exclusive basis. This means that all household expenses such as Council Tax, water and drainage, electricity, gas, heating oil and telephone charges are all the responsibility of the tenant unless specifically stated otherwise in the tenancy agreement.
Commencement of tenancy
On commencement of tenancy all charges listed on the initial invoice are due, including the security deposit, the first months rent and administration charges. The tenancy agreement and all relevant paperwork must be signed by all relevant parties before the tenancy can commence.
Insurance
Landlords are required to insure the buildings and their own contents. Tenants must make their own arrangements for insuring their contents and possessions. We do require proof of relevant cover in the form of a cover note or photocopy prior to commencement.
Inventory and check-in
A full ‘Inventory and Schedule of Condition’ for the property will be drawn up prior to the commencement of the tenancy. This details the contents and condition of the whole property. When we move a new tenant in, we read through the inventory with you to make sure that you fully understand and appreciate the condition of the property. Tenants are responsible for the upkeep of the property for the duration of the tenancy and we expect you to hand back the property in the condition that it was handed to you.
If you have any queries or questions about any of the above points, please feel free to contact the office and we will be happy to discuss these issues in further detail.
Thank you.
Petty son & Prestwich . 11 Woodbine Place, Wanstead, London, E11 2RH,