| • |
Before going to
see a house or flat, make a list of the things
you're looking for in the location – are you really
looking for that idyllic remote country location,
or like most people are you wanting to be close
to shops, schools, transport, eating out, bars
etc. |
| • |
Be sure to tell the agent what's
important for you at the property – e.g. budget,
furnished/unfurnished, occupation date sought,
how long you want to stay, parking, safe play areas
for children. |
| • |
If possible rent out through
an agent or landlord with some form of professional
accreditation such as NALS or ARLA membership.
In that way you can be sure that your deposit is
safe, and you will also have an organised way of
resolving disputes arising in relation to the tenancy. |
| • |
Having decided on your budget
for the rent, find out what additional costs will
be involved. Expect to pay a deposit of at least
one month's rent and possibly some administration
charges. Make provision for insurance if existing
policies won't do. |
| • |
Be up front if you are a smoker
or would like to keep a pet. Many landlords are
unhappy about such tenancy requirements, but an
agent should offer to identify those landlords
with no objections. |
| • |
Clarify what is, and is not
included, in the rental; Council Tax and utility
bills are not usually included but it is important
to be clear |
| • |
Ensure that the tenancy agreement
complies with current legislation and Office of
Fair trading requirements and that you understand
the requirements of the lease. If you have concerns,
ask for an explanation before signing or seek advice
from a lawyer or Citizens Advice Bureau. |
| • |
Carefully examine the inventory,
and accompanying photographs prepared, and ensure
that you receive a copy to keep. Any adjustments
required should be discussed with the agent and
recorded. |
| • |
During your tenancy notify defects
in writing to the landlord or agent as soon as
they become apparent, even if they don't need to
be rectified at the time. |
| • |
Should you have any problems
or queries during the tenancy, direct them to the
agent if you have one, rather than the landlord,
to help avoid later misunderstanding or legal complications. |
