Understanding your tenancy agreement
Your tenancy agreement is one of the most important documents you'll sign when renting a property, so it's crucial to understand what it covers. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
1. Rent and Payment Terms
Your agreement will outline how much rent you need to pay, when it’s due and the method of payment. Make sure you know the exact amount and date to avoid any late fees.
2. Deposit Details
The agreement will confirm the deposit amount and where it will be securely held (usually in a government-backed deposit protection scheme). It also explains how you can get your deposit back at the end of the tenancy.
3. Your Responsibilities
This section covers your duties as a tenant - things like paying rent on time, keeping the property in good condition and not causing any disturbances to neighbors. You'll also find details about reporting maintenance issues.
4. Landlord's Responsibilities
The landlord is responsible for making sure the property is safe and habitable. Your agreement will include their obligations, such as repairing major issues, maintaining essential services and ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
5. Length of Tenancy
Check the term of the tenancy (usually 6 or 12 months) and any notice period you need to give if you plan to leave early. If you want to renew, you’ll likely need to give notice towards the end of your term.
6. What’s Included in the Rent
The agreement will state whether utilities, council tax or any other bills are included. Make sure you’re clear on what additional costs you’ll need to budget for.
We’ll go through everything with you, making sure you're fully comfortable with your agreement before signing. Our goal is to ensure your rental experience is smooth and hassle-free.