• REFERENCES

We will require references, one of which must be from your bank, who will require your consent to forward a reference to us, and to deduct their fee for so doing.

• LEASE

The minimum term is six months but generally properties are rented on an annual basis. If required a break clause, or option to renew for a further term can be inserted into the contract, subject to negotiation.

• RENT

The rent is usually exclusive of telephone, water, gas, electricity and council tax. The normal method of payment is by calendar monthly rental or quarterly instalments in advance by standing order. The first payment is due before the commencement of the tenancy in the form of cleared funds. Personal cheques may be accepted in special circumstances, but must be received 7 working days before the commencement date to allow time for clearance.

• DEPOSIT

An amount equivalent to six weeks of the agreed rent is required as security against damage and dilapidations. At no time can these monies be used in payment for rent. This too is required prior to the commencement of the tenancy in the form of cleared funds.
The deposit is held by Susan Metcalfe Residential.

• TENANCY DEPOSIT SCHEME

We have been approved to operate under the new Tenancy Deposit Scheme, which is backed by ARLA and RICS. Under this scheme, the deposit will continue to be held in a separate client account. Upon receipt of a deposit (or renewal of an existing tenancy with a new AST where a deposit is already held by Susan Metcalfe Residential), the details of the tenancy and the deposit will be registered with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) and confirmation of this provided to the tenant.

• UTILITIES

The gas, electricity and water services are automatically transferred into your name at the commencement of the tenancy.

• COUNCIL TAX

The council tax authority is advised of your occupation of the property at the commencement of the tenancy.

• TELEPHONE

You are required to transfer the telephone line into your name at the commencement of the tenancy. To do so you should contact the service provider.

• INVENTORY

Check-In: An inventory of the contents and condition of the property will be prepared and used to check you into the property by an independent inventory clerk. The cost of the inventory make and check in is paid by the Landlord.

Check-Out: At the end of the tenancy the same inventory will be used for the inventory check-out. The cost of the check out is paid by the Tenant.

• TENANCY AGREEMENT

We do charge a standard tenancy agreement fee of £150 plus VAT which is payable by you at the commencement of the Tenancy. If the tenancy is renewed an administration fee of £50 plus VAT is payable by you for the renewal documentation.

• TV LICENCE

The Tenant is responsible for paying the licence fee in respect of the use of any television set(s) in the premises during the tenancy.

• INSURANCE

You should insure your own belongings.