Your Guide to Renting a Property in the UK​

Renting a property can be an exciting but also a challenging process. To make things easier, we've created this step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the renting process.

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1. Offer Acceptance and Holding Deposit

Once your offer has been accepted in principle by the landlord, you will need to pay a holding deposit to secure the property. This deposit will usually be up to one week's rent and will be deducted from your first month's rent if the tenancy goes ahead. Upon payment, the landlord agrees to take the property off the market, subject to satisfactory references and contract.

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2. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)

After securing the property, we will provide you with a copy of the Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). This document rates the energy efficiency of the property from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient). The certificate is valid for 10 years and can help you understand the potential energy costs associated with the property.

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3. Essential Paperwork

To proceed with your application, we need the following documents and actions completed within 48 hours of your offer being agreed. If the required documents are not provided within this timeframe, the property may be placed back on the market.

Application Form

• Each occupier aged 18 or over must complete an online application form. We use a third-party referencing agency to verify your references.

Bank Statements

• You may be asked to provide copies of your last three months’ bank statements. These will help confirm your financial stability.

Photo Identification

• Each occupier must provide a valid photo ID, such as a passport or UK driving license, along with proof of address (e.g., a utility bill or council tax bill). Please note that certain documents like provisional driving licenses, mobile phone bills, and credit card statements are not accepted.

Right to Rent Checks

• Under UK law, we are required to verify that all tenants have the legal right to rent in the UK. You will need to visit our office with your original acceptable documents, which we will certify and hold on file. More information about the Right to Rent checks can be found at gov.uk/righttorentchecks.

 

4. References

Our head office lettings team will contact you to reconfirm the details of your tenancy application, which is subject to contract. We will update you regularly on the progress of your references. In some cases, to avoid delays, you may need to assist in obtaining references from your employer or previous landlord.

 

5. Reviewing the Tenancy Agreement

Once your references have been approved, we will send you the tenancy agreement. This is a legally binding contract, so it’s crucial to carefully review the content. Ensure that all parties sign where indicated and return the agreement to us as soon as possible to avoid any delays in your move-in date.

 

6. Payment of Move-In Monies

Upon receiving satisfactory reference reports for all tenants, which are approved by the landlord, you will be required to pay the move-in monies. This includes the first month’s rent and the deposit, typically equivalent to 5 weeks' rent. Payment must be made in cleared funds at least 2 working days before the tenancy start date.

 

7. Final Steps and Move-In

Once all payments have been made and the tenancy agreement signed, we will arrange a check-in time for you. This appointment will be when you collect the keys to your new home. We recommend not booking your removal van until your references have been approved, and you have a confirmed move-in time.

 

8. Inventory and Check-In

Before you move in, a detailed inventory of the property will be conducted. This inventory lists all the contents of the property and the condition of the property at the start of the tenancy. You will be given a copy to review and sign. It’s important to check this document carefully and report any discrepancies as soon as possible.

 

9. Utilities and Council Tax

Once you move in, you will need to set up your utility accounts (gas, electricity, water) and register for Council Tax. It’s advisable to take meter readings on the day you move in and inform the utility companies of these readings.

 

10. Ongoing Communication and Maintenance

Throughout your tenancy, our team will be on hand to assist with any queries or maintenance issues. We provide a dedicated portal where you can report repairs and track the status of your request. Routine inspections will be carried out during your tenancy to ensure the property is being maintained in good condition.

 

11. End of Tenancy and Moving Out

As your tenancy comes to an end, you’ll need to provide written notice according to the terms of your tenancy agreement. We will arrange a check-out appointment to inspect the property and compare it against the original inventory. Deductions from your deposit may be made for any damages or cleaning required.