Private rentals accounted for 20% of households in England during 2017, which amounted to approximately 5 million households! Renting should be an enjoyable experience and for the newcomers, Cranbrook Lettings has some tips.

•  Prepare your finances 

Figure out how much you can pay in rent per calendar month and take into account your general costs of living which includes: Council Tax, fuel bills, insurance and TV License and Broadband. In addition to this you will need to budget at least six weeks worth of rent  as the amount to be put down as security deposit for the period of time that you will be a tenant.

•  Finding the ideal property to rent

Search for properties here on our website and you can filter using our handy Advanced Search System! After shortlisting some properties, arrange some viewings and find your ideal property!

• Asking Questions

When you find a property that you would like to rent, you will most probably have read about it online or in an agent’s printed details. You will have seen only basic information, so if there is anything that is unclear or not stated don’t be afraid to ask questions. For example, check who is responsible for maintaining the garden, and whether there are any restrictions concerning pets or smoking in the premises. If you clear such questions at the earliest stage you won’t waste money applying to rent an unsuitable property. 

• The Tenancy Agreement

Assuming you pass the checks and referencing process, the agent will draw up an Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreement which you and the landlord will sign. Read the agreement very carefully before signing and if you are unsure of anything don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. The tenancy agreement is a legal document and binds you and the landlord to the terms within it. Make sure they are in accordance with your understanding.

• The Deposit

You will be required to pay a security deposit which will be held by the agent on behalf of the landlord for the duration of the tenancy. Its purpose it to provide the landlord with compensation if you damage the property or its contents and facilities. 

• Paying the rent

When the tenancy period is nearing its end, you can ask if the landlord will agree to renew the tenancy (the amount of the rent may change and there may be some administration charges to pay) or you can leave the property. Arrange to move out by the agreed time on the agreed day. Make sure the property is clean and tidy and in at least the same condition as when you moved in. On the moving day, the inventory should be checked at the property by the landlord or their agent, with you in attendance, and it should be signed off by you as correct before you vacate. Take a note of the meter readings for gas and electricity and apply for final billing. Don’t forget to arrange with Royal Mail to redirect mail to your new address if you move out!

• Repaying your deposit

Shortly after you move out, you will receive an account from the landlord or their agent detailing the charges for dilapidations, if any, that you agreed when the inventory was reviewed during the check-out. Providing you agree the amounts, the balance of your deposit should be returned without delay.