Guide for Tenants Looking for a Flat to Let

Moving into your new property to rent can be very exciting. Listed here are a series of pointers and advice for new tenants who either have not rented before or are looking for some useful guidance. This article covers aspects of property rental including rent payments, how to deal with any problems that arise in your property, checking the content and inventory, landlord requirements and deposit issues.

If a problem arises in your flat whether it be a leak, a broken down washing machine or you are simply unsure of something to do with the tenancy you should contact your landlord or letting agent and report it. The quicker the problem is reported the sooner it can be resolved. No matter how small the issue is let the landlord or letting agent be aware of it.

Understanding the tenancy agreement is very important before signing. If you do not understand something on it be sure to ask your landlord or letting agent to explain it.

Record Your Rental Payments
It is very good practice to keep a clear record of all your rent payments, the date, amount and method of payment. The best, most widely used method of tenant rent payment is a standing order payment, set up through your bank. This allows the rent to be paid directly and there is a clear record of all payments in your bank statements. You should keep your bank statement stored in a secure place, in the order you received them as you may need to check them if a payment issue arose.

Respect the Property You Are Renting
You should respect the property you are renting and treat it as you would your own property for the duration of your tenancy. You should keep the property and its contents in good order so can be certain to get your full deposit back when you move out. If you have any concerns about the state of the property when you move in whether it be existing damage you want them to be aware of, or you feel the property is not equipped properly you should mention this to your landlord or letting agency. It is the landlords responsibility to keep the flat in good condition.

Tenancy Deposit
When you first move into the property you should receive an inventory for the contents and condition of the flat. You should check this against the property and report any missing items or damage that is present but not on the list. The best method of doing this is to write to the landlord or letting agent and keep a copy of the letter. This will help with any issues regarding the return of your deposit. The tenancy deposit is payable to cover any damage to the property or contents during the tenancy. It is normally one months rent value and is payable upfront at the same time as the first months rent. Any unreported damage that is recorded when you move out will be taken out of your deposit. You should except to receive your deposit back one month after your tenancy ends.

Property Sharing Advice
You should be very careful who you choose to share your property with. If you are all signing the same tenancy agreement this means you are all liable for the payment of the rent. If one person leaves you will still be required to pay the full rent for that month so it is important you only share a rented property with someone you can trust.

Living in the Property
You are entitled to live in the property in peace and without any interference from the landlord. He is not allowed to enter the property without your permission. By law the landlord is required to keep the exterior and structure of the property maintained and in good condition. This includes the installations of the gas, electricity, basins, sinks, baths, hot water and heating. If this is not done you may complain to your local environmental health department.

Source: http://www.streetdirectory.com/travel_guide/69265/real_estate/guide_for_tenants_looking_for_a_flat_to_let.html