Faq
Q: What is the minimum tenancy term?
A: The minimum Assured Shorthold Tenancy we normally offer is six months. Traditionally lets are taken out in ‘blocks’ of six months, so six, twelve, eighteen or twenty four months are usual. However, there is no reason why a tenancy could not be for another length, say ten months. But it must be in complete months, not part months.
Q: What is the maximum tenancy term?
A: There is no maximum; however any tenancy over two years, three hundred and sixty four days would require the drawing up of a deed. This can be time consuming and result in extra expense.
Q: Why does the tenant have to pay a deposit?
A: The deposit is held against any damage to the property, missing items or unpaid rent/fees at the end of the tenancy.
Q: Can anyone hold the deposit?
A: No. It should be either the landlord or his agent and must be held in one of three approved schemes. We use The Dispute Service (TDS) scheme.
Q: If I am interested in renting a property how long does it take?
A: In part it will depend upon how quickly the responses to our reference enquiries are returned to us. However, one week is usually sufficient.
Q: Do you accept pets?
A: This is entirely at the discretion of the owner of the property. Some landlords will not, under any circumstances, and others will. If pets are allowed it is usually subject to the payment of a higher security deposit.
Q: Can we pay cash?
A: No. We are not insured to handle cash. If you wish to pay using cash we can provide the bank details and you would need to pay it in over the counter yourself.
Q: What is the best way to pay the initial funds (rent, deposit and inventory fee)?
A: All payments before starting a tenancy must be made in ‘cleared’ funds prior to the start of the tenancy. Payment by cheque should therefore be made at least seven working days in advance to allow time to clear. We accept most credit and debit cards (please check with the office first), but please be aware that there will be a charge if paying by credit card. A bank transfer, banker’s draft or building society cheque is usually acceptable.
