Finding Property

Now you have found a property you like, becoming the tenant can usually take anywhere from a few days to up to three of four weeks.
Before you sign anything the landlord or agent should provide you with a clear statement of rent, tenancy deposit and any costs of setting up the tenancy. This includes the administration costs of getting your references.

The letting agent will get references by contacting either:

• Your bank
• Credit referencing agencies
• Current and previous employer(s)
• Current and previous landlord(s).

If you are self-employed you may need to provide copies of trading accounts and an accountant's reference.
If someone is going to be your guarantor you will still need references.

Tenancy agreement and deposit

Before signing, read, and if necessary get professional advice on, any documents you have to sign. You need to check the paperwork mentions the following important points:

• Length of tenancy - most lettings are 'Assured Shorthold Tenancies'
• How often and when to pay rent, as well as any other costs
• What the deposit is, usually either a month's rent or the equivalent of six weeks rent
• Your landlord must, by law, give you an address in England and Wales for serving your notice
• How you will get the deposit back at the end of the tenancy
• How much, and who will pay for, work at the end of the tenancy, such as checking the inventory, renewing the agreement or cleaning the property
• The contact details of the manager responsible for the property
• Whether gas, electricity and other services have been connected and that meters have been read

Finally go round with the landlord to do an inventory check for both of you to sign and date it on the day you move in. If more then one person is renting the property make sure that all names sign. This should be done on the day you move in.
Make sure all names sign and date the assured shorthold tenancy agreement.