Information for Tenants

Register with us today to take the hassle out of finding, applying for and living in a rented property.

 

Why choose a Barton Real Estates property to rent?

It’s FREE to register, let us know exactly what you are looking for and we will find it. Our experienced lettings staff are trained to help tenants find exactly what they are looking for, and throughout the process of applying for, and renting our properties, provide the support and answers to your ongoing needs.

 

Applying for a property?

Once you have viewed a property to your liking you will be asked to complete a Tenancy Application Form and provide us with a one off one-off application fee of £85. We will then take professional and character references, including credit referencing, to ensure that both tenant and property are suited to each other.

Note – anybody who wishes to live at the property over the age of 18 is required to complete an application.

Before applying check that you fit the following criteria:

  • Have been resident in the UK for the last 3 years
  • Be in full-time employment with no gaps in employment during the last 6 months
  • Be earning around 2.5 times the monthly rent being asked
 

These items are for guidance only; if you feel you may fail one or more of the above we would recommended talking to us before making a formal application.

 

Tenancy agreement

It is normal for an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement to be arranged. The Agreement is usually for between six and twelve months and sets out the terms and conditions of the tenancy. It is signed by both the landlord and you as the tenant.

Please read carefully the terms of the Tenancy agreement as it sets out not only the obligations of the landlords, but also those appropriate to you such as general property care, maintenance and upkeep of gardens.

 

What is an inventory?

An inventory is a comprehensive document, which provides details about the condition of the property and its contents. A copy of this document is provided to you as the tenant to check and sign.

An inventory is used to ensure that the property is returned to the landlord at the end of a tenancy period in the same condition in which you found it.

 

Will I have to pay a deposit?

Yes, in addition to paying an advanced payment for rent you will be required to pay a deposit equivalent to one month’s rent plus £100. It is held during the term of the tenancy to ensure that the various obligations of the tenant under the terms of the tenancy agreement (mainly those surrounding the cleanliness and condition) are satisfied.

 

Who holds the deposit?

From the 6th April 2007 all new tenancy deposits must be protected in a government-authorised scheme. The Government wants to make sure your deposits are protected so that tenants get all or part of the deposit back when they are entitled to it. It is also to ensure that disputes between tenant and landlord with an encouragement for the tenant to look after the property they are renting.

 

Who is responsible for Safety, Repairs and Maintenance issues?

The landlord generally has the responsibility to ensure that the exterior of the property such as drains, gutters, pipes are kept in working order. He is also responsible for ensuring the installation and supply of the services such as gas, electricity and water.

The tenant has a duty to report disrepair promptly, and take steps to ensure that they or any guests do not damage any fixtures or fittings within the property. The occupier would usually be expected to look after day-to-day maintenance such as replacing light bulbs, replacing batteries in smoke or CO2 alarms, tightening the odd loose screw and to keep the property reasonably warm to prevent condensation problems or freezing of pipes.

Tenants are required to leave the property secure if away from it for any reason and to keep the gardens and outside areas tidy and free from rubbish.

 

What happens if I want to end the tenancy agreement?

At the end of the prescribed tenancy period, should you wish to leave you are required to one months notice in writing. If the landlord wishes to gain possession, they are required to offer a minimum period of 2 months written notice to the end of a period.

Further help and information is available via our specialist team of advisors at Barton Real Estates Tel. 01709 515740

Contact Barton Real Estates