Have you found the perfect rental home or are you still looking and want to be prepared? Then this blog is for you. We’ve compiled our top tenancy application tips, so you can ensure a smooth process when applying.
Finding a new home is an exciting time, but there are some steps you need to take before you can confirm the home and get settled.
Find the right property
It’s really important that your new rental home meets your needs. Make sure you have considered how much space you need and the location of the property. It’s also a great idea to check out the local area before you make any decisions about living there.
Read our blog on what to look for in a rental home. You may also be searching for a reliable flatmate, in which case you should read our blog on finding the right flatmate.
Complete your application promptly
When you find the perfect rental property, you will need to complete online forms and pay your holding deposit. A holding deposit secures the property for you until the move in date. The application will require basic information as well as residence history, employment details and references.
You will also need to verify your income before a written tenancy agreement is created. Prospective tenants may need to provide bank statements and complete a Right to Rent check.
Select good references
You may need to provide references in order to secure the property. This usually requires you to provide contact details for either your employer or a previous or current landlord. Don’t worry if this is your first time as a renter, as we may only require one reference.
Consider your long term plans
Most landlords favour tenants who plan to stay with them for longer periods of time. A longer term tenancy is usually 12 months, whereas a short term tenancy may only be 6 months.
By signing a longer term tenancy agreement, you are saving the landlord time and money as they don’t need to find new tenants as frequently.
Consider a guarantor for your rental application process
A guarantor can be used as a security policy for the landlord. Having a guarantor in place means that they will step in to pay your rental costs if you cannot. In some cases, guarantors may be required in order to proceed with the tenancy.
Serve the correct notice to your existing landlord
If you are currently in rented accommodation, it’s vital that you serve the correct notice period for the property. Otherwise, you risk breaching your tenancy agreement, which could cause issues.
If you are planning to move out, make sure that you know exactly when the tenancy is due to end and how soon you need to provide notice for leaving.
Check the property for safety certificates
Landlords are required to maintain safety in their rental properties. This can include a gas safety certificate, energy performance certificate and more. Quite often, appliances will have stickers on to show when they were last tested or checked. If you notice out of date testing, you should speak to your landlord.
Complete the inventory
Your letting agent will likely have completed an inventory report for you, but you should also add any issues that you notice to the forms. The inventory serves as an important document that is checked thoroughly when you leave a property and throughout the tenancy. This enables the landlord and their agents to check for additional damage that is not labelled as wear and tear.
Organise contents insurance for the rented property
While renting, your landlord is responsible for ensuring the property has sufficient buildings insurance, but you must protect your own items. You can find great deals for contents insurance online, which help to keep your items protected in case of any issues.
What to do when you move
- Inform the council for council tax payments
- Inform other utility companies
- Complete meter readings
- Get a TV licence
The best way to ensure a smooth new tenancy process is to stay on top of all documentation. Not only does this show the landlord that you are a serious tenant, but it can also help to keep the process moving smoothly. You will also need to pay a security deposit, which must be protected by a government approved scheme.
Are you looking for your next rental property? Contact us to see what we have available.
