Everyone remembers their first time renting a property. Whether it was the flat you shared at university, or the first time you stepped out on your own, taking the big leap towards independence from your parents. It’s a big step for all of us, and for most it’s a happy memory of finally getting your own space. Unfortunately, for some that experience can turn sour. First time renters are often unaware of some of the pitfalls of renting, and if they’re not careful, they could run foul of the complicated world of renting. But at Northwood we want to make sure our tenants are as educated, and therefore as protected, as possible, which is why we’ve put together some top tips for helping ensure your first memories of renting are good ones!
Make Sure You Fully Understand Your Tenancy Agreement
When you’re renting any property, you will be asked to read and sign a tenancy agreement. This outlines all the basic requirements from you and your landlord during your time there. For example, it will explain what the minimum duration of your tenancy is, when you can leave, and how much notice you need to give. It will also state the condition you need to keep it in, what you are allowed to do, and what the landlord is allowed to do. Make sure you read through the whole thing before you move in, and make sure you understand it properly. If there’s something you don’t understand, ask your estate agent for clarification.
Check Your Deposit Has Been Protected
There are a lot of rules around how your deposit should be treated by your landlord – but it’s important for you to understand where your money is! Under the law, your landlord is required to enter your deposit into a protection scheme, and will have 30 days to do this after they receive your money. They also have to provide you with the full details of the scheme they have chosen, along with all the information you need to get it back. If you haven’t received this information within the 30 day window, make sure you check in with your landlord and make sure it has been done.
Check The Inventory BEFORE You Sign
On move in, your landlord or estate agent will provide you with an inventory of the entire property, including any furnishings, fixtures or other items they have left within. This inventory will include details of any pre-existing damage (like scuff marks on walls, stains on carpets or any other minor cosmetic impairments), as well as things like furniture, spare paint or extra carpets they have left you. You will be asked to check that the inventory is correct, and sign it to confirm before you move in.
The inventory is referred to at the end of the tenancy to ensure everything is left as you found it, and to check for any damage you may have caused. If any damage is found, then your landlord may withhold part, or even all of your deposit to pay for the repair. So before you sign the inventory when you move in, do a whip around the property and make sure everything is documented and accurate. If you find any damage that isn’t on the inventory, take a photo and send it to the estate agent, so that it can be added in.
Report Repairs
Once you’ve moved in and got all settled in, you’ll probably be focussed on enjoying time in your new home! But sometimes things may go wrong or break, and if they are part of the property, then you need to let the landlord know. A lot of people might try to put off telling the landlord about repairs that need to be done, for fear of losing their deposit. But your landlord is actually responsible for most of the repairs on the property, including:
- Electricity and wiring
- Gas, pipes and boilers
- Heating and water
- Plumbing
- Built in appliances like ovens or fridges/freezers
- Structural damage to walls, windows, stairs, bannisters, external doors etc
- Common areas like entryways
At Northwood, it’s our job to make sure both landlords and tenants can live their lives happy and stress-free. Tenants knowing they can safely enjoy their new home, and landlords confident that their property will be well taken care of. If you would like to know more about how we do that, just get in touch with us today.
