Tenants Information
We’re delighted that you’re looking to buy or rent a property through Home & Castle Estate and Letting Agents. Please read through the following information carefully.
You should also refer to our Privacy Policy for information on how we manage your personal data in order to remain GDPR-compliant. Please be assured that we will never pass on your details to third parties for marketing purposes.
Application Process for Tenants
You will be required to complete an application form at the time of choosing a property. At this time, details such as occupancy date, duration of tenancy etc will be agreed on a provisional basis.
On application, a reservation deposit of 1 week’s rent will be payable. Assuming the tenancy is agreed and that it proceeds, this sum will be deducted from the fees prior to occupation. If Home & Castle withdraw from the process, this amount will be refunded.
Should you decide for whatever reason to withdraw from the tenancy, or if the tenancy does not proceed due to inaccurate or incomplete information on the application form, the amount paid will NOT be refunded to you.
References
Home & Castle will obtain references on behalf of your Landlord. Normally, this will include references from your employer, your former Landlord and a character reference. In addition, we will carry out a credit check.
If you are unable to meet the required income or credit checks, you must have a Guarantor agree to underwrite any tenancy liabilities.
Rent
Rents are normally quoted and payable on a per calendar month basis.
As the tenant you are responsible for council tax, water rates, gas electricity and telephone costs. Your rent will be payable by standing order or direct debit to our company bank account monthly in advance. The first month’s rent will be due before taking occupation of the property.
You may be required to pay additional rent for a pet.
Deposit
You will need to pay a minimum of one month’s deposit to a maximum of 5 weeks rent prior to occupation. Your deposit will normally be equal to one month’s rent, but it may be more. This deposit is held to cover any breakages, damage or other applicant liabilities.
From 6th April 2007, all tenancy deposits taken by Landlords (or agents acting on their behalf) in connection with an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) must be protected by law under one of the statutory Tenancy Deposit Schemes. Home & Castle is a member of the Deposit Protection Scheme. For more information, please contact us at our office.
End of Tenancy
Where Home & Castle is managing the rental, at the end of the tenancy we will check the property in your presence and assess any damages and deductions due to your deposit that you may be liable for. Please note that you cannot use the deposit to cover your rent.
Insurances
As a tenant, you are not required to have buildings insurance. This will be taken care of by the Landlord.
We strongly advise that you take out home contents insurance, as this will insure your personal belongings. Home & Castle would be happy to obtain a quote on your behalf from a specialist insurer with experience in Applicant and Landlord insurance.
Please contact us to talk about renting one of our properties to let.
