Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Landlords - Frequently Asked Questions
When should I start marketing?
We can, and frequently do advertise properties which are available for immediate occupation, but as a rule of thumb, 6-8 weeks prior to the property being available is a good timeframe to get the ball rolling.
Should I offer the property furnished or unfurnished?
Every marketplace and property type will have its own trends, but typically there is little or no difference in the asking rent whether the property is furnished or not, and often little difference in the likely timeframe for securing a tenant. As such you can simply do what suits you best, but always seek the advice of your local agent first.
Do I need to be insured?
You must have Buildings Insurance cover. Talk to your insurance company or your Letting Agent about a Landlords package.
How much deposit is held?
We take 6 weeks rent as standard deposit for each tenancy. All tenancy deposits are held with The Deposit Protection Service.
What reference checks are undertaken?
We instruct an external and independent referencing agency to carry out a credit search, an employment reference, a current/previous Landlord reference. Personal references can also be requested. A final report will be given to the Landlord for approval before he/she signs the tenancy agreement.
What is the likely length of the tenancy?
An Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement can be anything from 6 months to 3 years. The most common type of contract is a 12 month term with a reciprocal break clause on or after 6 months of continuous tenure.
How much notice do I have to serve to regain possession?
Under the terms of your tenancy agreement you will be required to give 2 months’ notice on your rent due date.
How/when will my tenants pay?
Rent is due on the anniversary of the start of the tenancy and it’s the tenants responsibility to ensure it is received by this date. We require payment to be made by standing order.
What happens if my tenant stops paying?
You (or your letting agent) should write to tenants every 7 days requesting the rental payment up until the point at which they are 2 months in arrears and you are in a position to serve notice on the grounds of non-payment of rent. We recommend, for peace of mind, that all landlords consider rent protection insurance.
What happens if my tenant is causing damage or nuisance?
These are both terms of their agreement and your recourse would be to serve notice and end the tenancy.
Who pays council tax?
Tenants are responsible for paying the council tax and any/all utility bills (unless otherwise advised). Landlords must continue to pay any ground rent/maintenance charges.
How quickly can I expect my tenant to move in?
In our experience most tenancies commence within 7 to 10 days of the tenant agreeing to let a property, however the timescale can be affected by the speed of which the landlord and tenant react and such things as referencing, notices and setting up of a standing order.