Renting a property can be confusing, especially if you are a first-time renter or even if you have not rented for a few years. The process is never straightforward and often depends on each applicants’ circumstances.
Claire Staniforth MARLA, Lettings Manager in Stags Honiton provides the answers to some of the frequently asked questions below.
1. How do I know how much I can afford?
On average, around 35% of a tenant’s income is typically spent on rent. With this in mind, it is important to also factor in the additional costs of utilities, telephone, internet, TV licence, general household items, as well as your weekly food shop. You want to ensure you have fully worked through your figures and done your maths.
2. Why do I have to be referenced?
Referencing enables a landlord to assess a potential tenant’s suitability and ability to fulfil the obligations of the tenancy. All occupiers over the age of 18 will usually be asked to complete a tenancy application form to enable references to be obtained. These will include credit checks, financial / employment checks, a landlord’s reference as well as a right to rent check.
3. Why do I have to pay a deposit?
A tenancy deposit will typically equate to 5 weeks rent. When a tenant vacates the property, it should be left in the same condition as it was found, allowing for fair wear and tear. If not, the deposit can be claimed by the landlord to settle any rent arrears or used to remedy any damages or dilapidations that have occurred during the tenancy.
4. Will my deposit be protected?
Any deposit paid by a tenant is required to be protected within a Government scheme. At Stags we use the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS). The deposit will be registered and protected for the duration of the tenancy within the scheme and they will also be able to provide help and support at the end of the tenancy should there be any disputes.
5. What is a tenancy agreement?
A Tenancy Agreement is a legal contract signed by both the tenant and landlord which outlines the terms and conditions that all parties must comply with.
6. What if there is a maintenance issue during my tenancy?
This will vary depending on whether your landlord manages the property themselves or if they have instructed an agent to manage the property on their behalf. In the event of a problem occurring with the property or its fixtures and fittings you should inform the relevant party as soon as possible. The agent or landlord will then normally instruct a suitable contractor to assess and resolve the issue.
What if I accidentally cause damage to the property?
Accidents happen, so try not to panic! Inform either the landlord or agent, depending on who is managing the property, as soon as possible. It is expected that you would be responsible for covering the cost of rectifying the problem. It is always recommended that tenants consider taking out Tenants Accidental Insurance cover, which you may be able to claim on, to remedy the issue, if there is an accident.
Can I decorate or make changes to the property?
A tenant is usually not permitted to make any changes, including internal decoration, without the landlord’s consent. Any requests to make changes should be discussed and agreed in writing with the landlord or their agent to ensure there is no misunderstandings or issues later in the tenancy.
What happens at the end of my tenancy?
You will be expected to leave the property as it was found, with allowances made for fair wear and tear depending on the duration of the tenancy, type of property, and number of occupants. It is advised that the property is cleaned thoroughly, not forgetting the skirtings/ door edges and the oven. In addition, check that the gardens and outside areas are all left in a tidy condition. If you are unsure it is always recommended that you check with the landlord or agent as once you have returned the keys you will be unable to re-enter the property. Most issues and disputes can easily be avoided by just checking.
Lastly, if you are unsure about anything, don’t be afraid to ask questions!
We are always happy to help, so if you are a tenant and you do have a question about renting a property, contact your local Stags office.
Renting a property can be confusing, especially if you are a first-time renter or even if you have not rented for a few years. The process is never straightforward and often depends on each applicants’ circumstances.
