I
want to rent. What should I ask?
As an ARLA member you will benefit from our experience, professionalism
and compliance with ARLA’s bye laws, regulations and accounting
procedures. Our professional indemnity insurance which complies with
the requirements of the Association’s Fidelity Bond will protect your
deposit. We provide a framework of ethical and
professional standards at a level far higher than the law demands.
Do I pay any fees to
the Agent?
You should not pay introductory fees but there will be certain
costs for you to cover, for inventories and for administration including
the preparation of the tenancy agreement and taking up references.
What money do I need
to find at the beginning?
Normally at least a month’s rent in
advance and the equivalent of a month to six weeks’ rent to be held as a
deposit against damage (and the administrative charges noted above).
What information will
I need to supply?
The addresses of referees for the agent to write and confirm your
ability to meet the rental commitment. These will normally include your
bank or building society, employer, previous landlords, or for some,
your solicitor and/or accountant.
What are my
responsibilities?
These should be clearly set out in your tenancy agreement, which
you should read carefully before you sign. If in doubt, ask the agent.
There is a duty for professional agents to ensure that anyone relying on
them is offered correct advice.
How long is a typical
let?
Most
agents require it to be a minimum if six months and rarely write a
tenancy agreement for longer than a year. But...
What else do I have to
pay for?
The
tenant usually pays the utility bills such as gas, electricity, water
and telephone during the course of the tenancy, TV. licence, etc; and
the Council Tax applicable to the property.
What must I do at the
end of a tenancy?
Ensure you fulfil your
obligations stated in the tenancy agreement to leave the property in the
condition it was in at the start, or deductions will be made from your
deposit. These will include thorough cleaning and all linen, used or
not, freshly laundered. If you have moved furniture, return it to where
you found it at the time of the inventory.
Who has been holding my
deposit?
Normally, the agent in a designated client’s deposit account.
That is why it is important to use an
ARLA agent.
We can assure you of
our best attention at all times and confirm that all matters are treated
in the strictest confidence.
