Tenants Guide to Renting Property

If you are currently seeking a property to rent, check out our property listings page. If you have seen a property that you would like to view you can use the contact form on each of the individual property details pages to arrange a viewing or make an enquiry, or alternatively, you can give us a call. 
 
If you have a specific type of property in mind we can take details of your requirements and contact you should a suitable property become available. 
 
Once you have viewed a property and decided to proceed with the letting we will start the process of arranging the tenancy agreement, deposits, references etc... 

References

Before commencing with the tenancy we will need to obtain satisfactory references from your employer and/or a previous or current landlord. There may also be instances when we require a personal reference or guarantor. We may also use the services of an independent referencing agency to obtain and evaluate these references. Photographic identification will also be required, such as passport or driving licence.

The Tenancy Agreement

Once the terms have been agreed by both parties and satisfactory references received, the relevant documentation will need to be signed by you.

Tenants Fees

As well as paying the rent, you may also be required to make the following permitted payments:

Permitted Payments

Before the tenancy starts (payable to Carvels Lettings ‘the Agent’)

Holding Deposit: 1 week’s rent

Deposit: Equivalent to 1 months rent + £100 or 5 weeks’ rent, whichever is the lower amount.

During the tenancy (payable to the Agent).

Payment of £50 if you want to change the tenancy Agreement.

Payment of interest for the late payment of rent at a rate of 3% above the Bank of England base rate from the date the payment is missed.

Payment of £25 per item for the reasonably incurred costs for the loss of keys/security devices.

Payment of any unpaid rent or other reasonable costs associated with your early termination of the Tenancy.

Tenant Protection

Carvels Lettings is a member of Client Money Protect (CMP), membership no: CMP003480, which is a client money protection scheme. See our CMP Membership Certificate here.

Carvels Lettings is also a member of Property Redress Scheme (PRS), membership no: PRS006082, which is a redress scheme.

You can find out more details by contacting us directly.

Inventory & Schedule of Condition

Before the start of the tenancy, an inventory is prepared detailing the contents and condition of the property. You will be provided with a copy and so will the landlord.

When can I move in?

Once the tenancy has been signed and rents & deposits have cleared, the tenancy can proceed. You can now collect the keys to your new home. 

Can I have pets in my new home?

You must consult us prior to obtaining a pet.

What if I find any faults or repairs that need addressing?

If you find any problems with the property you are renting, you should contact us immediately. Once we have been informed of any issues/faults we will instruct the landlord and await their instruction.

Can I decorate the property?

You must consult us prior to carrying out any changes to the property. We will contact the landlord and await his permission.

Do I have to pay for Council Tax & Utility Bills?

As a tenant you will be responsible for any utility bills like water, gas, electric as well as council tax, unless there is a special arrangement with the landlord of the property. You will also be responsible for a TV license at the property, if you watch TV without a license you risk being fined. Please check the tenancy agreement details.

Do I need insurance, as a tenant?

The landlord of the property is responsible for insuring the building and any furnishings that come with it. You will be responsible for insuring your own contents/personal possessions stored within the rented property.

Can I run a business from the property I rent?

No. You must use the property solely for residential purposes unless specifically agreed in advance, in writing.

As a tenant, what am I responsible for?

As a tenant, you are responsible for:

  • Prompt payment of the rent
  • Prompt payment of gas, telephone, electricity, council tax
  • Reporting any damages to the property or furnishings within the property as soon as possible
  • Taking general good care of the property
  • Respect the needs of your neighbours

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