First Time Renters: A Checklist Before Renting a Property in the UK

Posted On Monday, 09 August 2021 19:22

When the pandemic just started, the government of the UK announced several measures to protect renters in the country. New laws banned evictions, and the government extended the notice period for landlords from two to six months. Authorities ended this ban on June 1st with the minimum notice period reduced to four months and returned to the standard two months from October 1st.

This is an indicator that the restrictions in the UK are finally relaxing, and more landlords will be willing to open their properties for letting. This is good news for those holding on to their moving decision due to the pandemic. Whether you have experience in renting houses or are a complete novice, the process of finding the right property can be an arduous task.

This article has been curated for first-time renters but will also help experienced renters to find the right property in the UK. 

Ensure That You Don’t Pay More Than You Should

If you have already seen several properties and fallen in love with a particular one, chances are you are willing to accommodate a slight premium over the offs. However, it’s essential not to lose sight and do your diligence before you sign a contract. 

The best would be to look at similar properties in the neighborhood and compare the price or rent with the property you’re interested in. This process could be a lot easier by approaching estate agencies in the area, who might have all listings in the area and give you an idea of whether you’re getting a good deal or not. 

It’s advisable to approach an estate agency with multiple branches spread across a region, which will help you get a broader estimate and even land you a cheaper property in another area. 

For example, you can click here to check estate agents in mid-North East England from the coast to the A1 corridor. Having an estate agency with comprehensive coverage will help you decide whether you are okay with paying a premium for the property you have set your eyes on, or there’s a better deal available elsewhere.

Don’t Blindly Put Down the Demanded Tenancy Deposit

The Tenant Fees Act introduced on June 1st, 2019, states that no landlord can legally demand more than five week’s rent as a deposit on properties with annual rent below £50,000. For properties with annual rent above £50,000, the maximum deposit is six week’s rent.

You can calculate the maximum tenancy deposit by multiplying the monthly rent by 12 and dividing the answer by 52. This will be your week’s rent, which you should multiply by five or six depending on how much your annual rent is. Knowing this will help you call out landlords who demand higher tenancy deposits than legally required.

Additionally, while you’re legally entitled to get your deposit back once your tenancy ends, it will depend on your agreement with the landlord. Terms of agreement may or may not be limited to paying bills on time, no damage to the property, and no modification to the property. 

Beware of Other Initial Fees

The above-mentioned Tenant Fees Act also prohibits landlords or agents from piling on any additional charge or fee. They might try to hoodwink you by professional terms like the fee for credit checks and references.

Also, the holding fee —which ensures that the property is reserved for you while the application is processed— is also limited to a week’s rent. This holding fee is liable to be returned to you within a week of deciding to rent. However, it won’t be returned if your application fails. 

Some of the reasons for application failure are false or misleading information, rent check failure, withdrawal from the proposed rent agreement, and failure to meet steps to enter into a tenancy agreement.

Decide Upon the Amenities You Need

The house you select for yourself has to be equipped with all amenities that you need to lead an everyday life. If you own all those amenities, then moving into an unfurnished home will make the most sense. However, most first-time tenants are usually light packers, which means they don’t have any furniture, appliances, utilities, and other necessary stuff. 

It’s imperative to make sure that the house you selected has necessary furniture, appliances (kitchen and household), and storage, among others. It’s best to opt for a furnished apartment or house in such cases. Also, enquire about utility services available in the area like cable TV, broadband, and other such requirements. 

Apart from the above steps, also get an idea of how far away transport links are, commute time from your workplace, the safety of the neighborhood, and good shopping areas nearby. This will ensure that you get a house where you can build a “home” for yourself. 

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