Tenant Information

Renting with Mark Rath

Think of renting? Our Guide to Renting is the perfect way to start your rental journey.

Finding Your Perfect Property Match 

Start your journey to finding your new home by considering:

  • Budget: What is the maximum rent you can comfortably afford each month?
  • Additional Costs: Remember to account for utilities, council tax, and other expenses.
  • Deposit: Typically equivalent to 5 weeks’ rent.
  • Upfront Rent: May be requested for several months in advance.
  • Location & Amenities: Consider commute costs, local schools, healthcare, and other facilities.
  • Property Type: Decide between furnished or unfurnished options and consider if the property is pet-friendly if you have animals.

Pre-Registering: We recommend pre-registering with us to expedite the application process once you find your ideal property.

Securing Your New Home 

Upon finding your ideal property:

  • You will be asked to complete a tenant information form (this form will be part of the vetting process), and we will present your application to the landlord for approval.
  • Holding Deposit – Equivalent to one week’s rent – The Holding Deposit is non-refundable in the event that you have provided false or misleading information and fail referencing or decide not to proceed with the renting of the property. Once the references have been agreed the Holding deposit will be deducted from the moving-in invoice. Deadline for completing the agreement for both parties – 15 days after receiving the holding deposit.

Referencing

Credit Checks: The Reference Agency will check the following information on each applicant:

  • Any adverse credit history such as, bankruptcy, CCJs, and court decrees.
  • Previous names and addresses that haven’t been disclosed.
  • Undisclosed credit history which is linked to your current and most recent addresses.
  • Banking details provided for a genuine bank account.
    Previous tenancies and rent payments history, via your landlord or managing agent.
  • Employment –three months wage slips.
  • Contractors/self employment need to prove at least one years’ self employment, an accountants reference, HMRC SA100 or SA302 may be required to prove actual income.
  • Bankruptcy and IVA’s – You will require a guarantor.
  • Housing benefit, universal credit applications – You will require a guarantor.
  • Identity Verification: A photo ID or alternative proof if necessary.
  • Right-to-Rent: Legal checks to verify your eligibility to rent in the UK.
  • Guarantor: Maybe required under certain circumstances. They will need to be fully referenced, have a clear credit history, and will be required to sign and deed of guarantee and the tenancy agreement.

Once your references have been passed

  • We prepare an Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreement setting out the terms and conditions of your tenancy.
  • Review: Thoroughly read your agreement to understand your rights and responsibilities, the tenancy agreement is legally binding and cannot be amended once it has been signed.

Moving In

  • Security Deposit – This is the equivalent of 5-week’s rent and is held in the TDS Government Scheme for the duration of the tenancy to be used for any dilapidations at the end of the tenancy.
  • First rent payment must be made before moving in, this will be included on your moving-in invoice. Monthly rent is always paid in advance.
  • Check-In: You will be asked to visit our office to collect the keys on moving in day, remember to bring your passport/ID for verification. For managed properties you will be sent a copy of the check-in report and will be given 7 days to make any additional comments. If your landlord is managing the property directly, they will provide you with their copy of the inventory.

Utilities

During the tenancy (payable to the provider) if permitted and applicable

  • Utilities – gas, electricity, water
  • Communications – telephone and broadband
  • Installation of cable/satellite
  • Subscription to cable/satellite supplier
  • Television licence
  • Council Tax

End of Tenancy

  • Property Condition: Return the property in its original condition based on the initial Inventory Report in accordance with the tenancy agreement.

Permissible Fees

  • Permitted Charges: Include fees for late rent payments, lost keys, and any damages beyond normal wear and tear.

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