FAQ - Tenants

How binding is the Tenancy Agreement I enter into?

A Tenancy Agreement is a legally binding document. You will be committed to paying rent until the end of the agreed term and you could be liable to legal action if you break the terms of the agreement. Tenancies are for a minimum of 12 months normally with a one month notice period. If it is a Part 4 tenancy agreement then the notice period depends on the length of tenancy. You will be required to sign the tenancy agreement before the tenancy starts. If your circumstances should change for any reason during your tenancy, we will approach the Landlord on your behalf and discuss the possible solutions but you should always assume at the outset that you will be committed for the duration of the Agreement.

Do I need insurance?

Yes! Your contents need to be insured and you also need to consider protecting your deposit against damage you might accidentally cause to the Landlord's contents. It's all too easy to drop the iron on the carpet or spill red wine. The Landlord covers the building and his own contents against normal perils such as fire, flood or theft but not yours. We can offer preferential Contents Insurance and will provide you with details at the application stage.

What about pets?

Requests can be made to the landlord via the letting agent but it is stipulated in the lease agreement with SPM that no pets are allowed. Exceptions can be made with written consent from the landlord.

What documents will you ask for?

We ask for:

•  Employers / Accountant (if self employed)
•  Previous Landlord (if applicable)
•  Bank
•  Copy of ID (passport/drivers licence)
•  PPS Number

How much is the deposit and will I get it back?

The deposit is normally one month's rent. You will get the deposit back at the end of the term of your lease agreement provided that the property has been left in the same condition it was rented to you at the commencement of your tenancy less everyday wear and tear.

How do I pay my rent?

Rent is paid monthly usually in advance in advance by standing order from your bank on the first of every month. This is a worry-free way of ensuring you never fall behind in your rental payments. Be sure to tell us if your circumstances change, for instance you change banks or your employment situation changes as we can then help you to protect your tenancy. The last thing we want is for you to fall into arrears.

How much money do I need to move into a property?

•  TO SECURE THE PROPERTY and ensure no further applicants are shown around - a booking deposit will be required.
•  DEPOSIT - THE EQUIVALENT OF ONE MONTHS RENT -held as security against any breach of the tenancy agreement on your behalf
•  RENT - paid in advance (by standing order on the first month)

Who pays the bills?

All utility bills are your responsibility except where agreed otherwise in the Tenancy Agreement. You must set up your accounts with your chosen suppliers upon moving in and close those accounts at the end.