Top Tips for Tenants

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1. One of the beauties of renting is that if you don't like a property after a period of time  you are usually able to provide 'notice to quit' to your landlord*.  However, it's still worth thinking quite carefully about the property you propose to rent  and ensuring that it is in an area that you feel comfortable in.

2. Viewing the property will give you a good indication as to how well the property is maintained - but remember - if it is tenanted at the time of viewing you'll need to accept that the current tenant may not keep it tidy!

3. Ask the landlord or their agent about maintenance and how quickly issues are dealt with.  Ideally you want a landlord who will act on problems / issues arising quickly and efficiently.

4.  Make sure that a proper tenancy agreement is in place, with a 6 month break clause if appropriate.

5.  Ensure any damage is clearly noted in the check-in report or inventory and if possible take photos and discuss these with the landlord.

6. Go with the landlord / check-in clerk at check-in when the maters are being read.  It's in your interests to ensure these are accurate.

7. Note that the tenancy deposits should not be held by the landlord themselves. It is now a requirement that the deposit is held by a third-party such as the Deposit Protection Service (DPS).  The landlord normally has an account set up and can put the deposit in.  Both the landlord and the tenant will then have sight of the deposit monies.  The landlord can't withhold money upon tenancy termination without good reason - and this has to be done through the DPS.

8.  Remember that the landlord will expect to find the property in exactly the same condition that you found it in when you check out.  A quick clean will often not suffice as the landlord should be able to let the property straight out again when you move out (bar any maintenance required).  The landlord is likely to charge you or withhold monies from your deposit if they incur a professional cleaning charge in getting the property up to the required level of cleanliness for the start of a new tenancy.

*Please refer to your tenancy agreement.  Usually, tenancy agreements are set up on a yearly basis and include a 6 month break clause.