Looking for property to rent in Clapham North? Hunting for flats to let in Salford Quays? Regardless of where you want to rent, there are ways and means of making the whole experience cheaper and stress-free.
Here, we bring together top tips for tenants from the pros and team them with some of our own. Increasing numbers of people are now renting as a consequence of being unable to get on the property ladder. As the Guardian’s Rupert Jones points out, disputes between landlords and tenants are rife. The big question of course is this; how do you avoid going to war with your landlord or letting agent?
So, before you sign on the dotted line and commit yourself to that property to rent in Clapham North, or start viewing flats to let in Salford Quays, keep the following tips in mind.
Fight the Fees
This is a tip from the aforementioned Rupert Jones, and it’s a very good one. Let’s say you’re looking for property to rent in Clapham North for around £1,000pcm. In addition to the monthly rent, you’ll have to pay for a few one-off costs, such as referencing, credit checks and admin fees. However, you should keep an eye out for spurious or downright dodgy fees.
Whilst it’s standard operating procedure for lettings agents to charge tenancy renewal fees and late payment fees, the amount doesn’t have to be extortionate. Make sure you know how much you will be charged for everything from the word go.
Also, as Mr Jones points out:”Don’t pay a fee to register with an agency or for a list of properties – it’s a criminal offence to charge for those.”
Take your Own Photos on Moving Day
The inventory is an important part of any tenancy. In addition to checking it for accuracy you should also make sure it doesn’t paint an over-optimistic view of the actual condition of carpets, furniture and appliances. Take your own photos when you move in and when you move out in case of any disputes and don’t forget to date them!
Make sure you are entered into a deposit protection scheme
It’s a requirement for private landlords and lettings agents in England and Wales and has been since 2007. The idea of these government-approved schemes is to safeguard both parties’ cash. Neither holds the deposit, it is instead held by a third party. You should be provided with the details within 30 days of the start date of your tenancy. Disagreements can be resolved using a scheme’s dispute resolution service.
Know your Rights...and your Responsibilities.
According to the Citizens Advice Bureau, as a tenant, you have the right to have the structure of your home kept in good repair by your landlord. Heating and hot water systems must also be kept in working order. However, it is your responsibility to read the written tenancy agreement properly and follow details about repairs.
Search My Homes Unlimited for properties to rent in Clapham North and flats to let in Salford Quays.
Sources: Guardian online, CAB.