Top Tips for First-Time Renters

Everybody remembers their first rental property. For some, it’s as part of a house share at college or university. For many, it’s the big leap towards independence from their parents. For most, it’s a happy memory of finally getting their own space. However, there are an unfortunate few whose first time renting turned out to be more of a nightmare than a dream come true.

We here at Home Estate Agents are diligent in ensuring all our rental properties are of a more than acceptable standard but your peace of mind as a renter is our number one priority. That’s why we’ve put together our top tips for first-time renters, so you know what to look for to ensure your memories of your first ever rental property are good ones!

Make Sure You Fully Understand Your Tenancy Agreement

When renting a property, it’s likely that the minimum duration of your tenancy will be outlined in your tenancy agreement/contract. This could range from 6 months to a year, or longer, and is known as a “fixed term tenancy”. If there is no break clause in your tenancy agreement, then you cannot give notice to end a fixed term tenancy until it has expired. Another thing to look out for is the amount of notice you are required to give before you move out. In most cases this will be 4 weeks, but it could be longer depending upon the type of tenancy and what is outlined in your agreement.

Check Your Deposit Has Been Protected 

Your landlord is required to enter your deposit into a protection scheme and will have 30 days to do this after they have received it. They must give you full details of the scheme and all the information you require to get it back. If you haven’t received details of your deposit protection after the 30-day protection window, make sure you chase this as the landlord may be required to pay a financial penalty.

Check the Inventory BEFORE You Sign Anything 

Your landlord will provide you with an inventory of the property and any furnishing within. This will include details such as any pre-existing damage such as marks on walls, scuffs on furniture, or other minor cosmetic impairments. The inventory is referred to at the end of the tenancy to check for any damage caused by you, the tenant, that the landlord may need to withhold part (or all) of your deposit to repair. Make sure you do a quick whip-round of the property once you have received this agreement to check for and make a record of anything that might have been missed.

Report Repairs

Once you have moved in, don’t put-off reporting repairs out of fear of losing your deposit. Your landlord is actually responsible for most of the repairs on your property including:

• Electricity and wiring
• Gas, pipes, and boilers
• Heating and hot water
• Plumbing
• Structural damage to walls, windows, stairs, bannisters, external doors, etc.
• Common areas such as entryways

We hope these top tips help you feel better prepared for your first time renting. For more advice on renting a property contact your local Home Estate Agents office.

URMSTON: 01617471177       STRETFORD: 01618713939      MONTON: 0161789838