Tenant Guide

We are glad that you are interested in one of our properties. For your convenience, we have prepared this overview of our guidelines used in processing all tenancy applications. Please feel free to ask any questions.

Helping you find the perfect property
We will assist 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.

Viewings
Having identified a potentially suitable property, we will arrange a viewing at a time to suite you including evenings and weekends - naturally subject to the landlord’s or current tenant’s permission. Every viewing is accompanied by a member of staff who will be able to provide immediate advice and answer any questions that you may have.

We are an equal opportunities housing provider
It is our policy to let our properties in full compliance with anti-discrimination laws. We do not discriminate against any person because of their race, colour, ethnic origin, sex, age, marital or family status, physical disability or sexual orientation.

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).

Tenancy length
Most tenancy agreements are for an initial fixed term of 6 or 12 months. However, for tenancies commencing in the summer, we recommend a fixed period of 8 or 9 months to avoid moving during the winter period.

After the initial fixed term has ended and if both parties are agreed, then the tenancy will shift to a periodic tenancy. This means that the tenancy will continue as before with the same terms and conditions as stated in the assured shorthold tenancy agreement but with a two months notice period on either side. This notice must expire at the end of the period of the tenancy. Alternatively we can agree a new fixed term of 6 or 12 months.

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 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 £40 per applicant to pay for the referencing and credit report. This is a non-refundable charge.