FAQS
Tenancy Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a Tenancy last for?
This depends on the property in question; tenancies can last from six months to 12 months, and could be on a rolling basis.
Can I rent for shorter periods?
On a standard AST agreement the shortest term we can offer is 6 months. However, in some scenarios shorter lets are available if this suits all parties.
How do you define furnished and unfurnished Lets?
There may be additional furniture within the property, but as basic furnishings are defined as thus:
- Bedroom - bed, wardrobe and chest of draws
- Kitchen – fridge/freezer, cooker & washing machine
- Sitting room – sofa(s) An unfurnished property is absent of the above furniture, except where white goods are concerned.
What about hiring cleaning, gardening or other services?
You are responsible for the maintenance of the garden, and the cleaning of the house. You are entitled to hire gardeners, cleaners and other additional household help.
What happens about insurance?
While the landlord has his own insurance for the property, this does not cover your belongings or accidental damage caused during your tenancy it is up to you whether you would like to insure your own belongings within the property – we advise that expensive items are all insured.
What happens about routine maintenance?
We will conduct routine maintenance visits during your tenancy to identify any unreported issues and to assess opportunities for general property improvements. As a tenant, you are responsible for keeping the property clean and in a habitable condition, maintaining the garden in a tidy state, and replacing any light bulbs as necessary.
What happens about emergency “Out of hours” maintenance?
Should there be a genuine emergency then phone our out of hour’s maintenance team. We will discuss your scenario and should we be required to attend because of a fault of the Tenant there will be a charge of £15.00 per hour, plus the cost of the relevant contractor. For any emergency that is beyond the control of the maintenance team (e.g. fire, theft or where people’s lives are at risk of danger) call the emergency services on 999.
How much will my utilities cost?
This is very difficult to predict as it depends on usage of the individual.
How will my deposit be protected?
Your deposit is protected by a government-authorised scheme which landlords sign up to. This ensures that the agreed amount is returned to you at the end of your tenancy. Should you have any disputes about the returned deposit you can raise them with the deposit protection scheme.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept a range of payment methods: cheque, cash, standing order and credit/debit card payments.
Can I have a break clause in the tenancy agreement?
We do not offer break clauses as a rule of thumb. However this is up to each individual landlord. Should this be an issue, please contact us.
How many sets of keys will I be given?
One set of keys per tenant will be given.
How quickly after the end of my tenancy can I expect the deposit returned?
After the landlord has taken any deductions from the deposit you can expect it back within 10 days of your request of the deposit back.
What date is my rent due?
Rents are due the 1st day of each month.
How can I pay my rent?
On the date your tenancy begins you will be given a standing order form to take to the bank and arrange with the bank for your rent to be paid.
How is my rent calculated?
Your rent is calculated by the total rent for the whole property divided by the number of occupants divided by the number of months the tenancy is valid. If you move into the property during the middle of the month, an apportioned rent will be calculated.
What time frame can I expect problems to be resolved in?
Should the problem be urgent we will endeavour to resolve it right away. If there are issues with the property, our Property Manager will assess the situation and let you know the timescale of work.
Is there a procedure for dealing with issues at the property?
If you have any questions or need to report a maintenance issue, please do so via the PropertyFile app. Our property management team monitors the app multiple times per day and will always strive to address and resolve reported issues promptly and efficiently.
At the end of the tenancy – who decides how much of the deposit should go towards maintenance work?
At the end of your tenancy the Property Manager and Landlord will work out what the tenant is liable to pay, allowing for fair wear and tear.