Tenant FAQ

Answers to the questions you are too afraid to ask as a tenant.

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How long does the application process last?
If my application is successful, what happens then?
What is a 'Good-Housekeeping Deposit'?
How do I pay my rent?

What happens if my rent is paid late?
I receive Housing Benefit, how will that affect my application / payment of rent?
What is a Guarantor?

How long does the application process last?

We try to insure that all applications are processed as quickly as possible. If all requested information has been supplied correctly, most applications are completed within 5 working days.

If my application is successful, what happens then?

If your offer on the property is successful, we will contact you to arrange an appointment to pay your 'Good-Housekeeping Deposit', pay your 1st month's rent and sign your 12-month lease agreement. All three must be completed before gaining possession of the property.

What is a 'Good-Housekeeping Deposit'?

The Deposit is a sum of money, protected by a Government authorised third party, on behalf of you and the landlord. It is held to insure that the property is returned to the landlord at the end of your tenancy in good order. Any damage, repairs, arrears or necessary cleaning to return the property to the condition in which you received it, may be paid for out of your deposit.

How do I pay my rent?

Generally rent is paid by a standing order mandate and will leave your account 3 days prior to the rental due date in order to be in the recipients account on the due date (The due date is typically, although not always, the date on which you moved in).

The first month's rent & deposit must be paid in full, either in cash on the moving in day, by BACS or other form of direct bank payment (5 working days before moving in) or by cheque (10 working days before moving in).

What happens if my rent is paid late?

Any problems with rental payments, which may result in late payment, should be conveyed to our office immediately. Arrears letters (for which you will be charged) will be issued if rent remains outstanding beyond 5 days after it was due. Interest will be charged until payment is made.

I receive Housing Benefit, how will that affect my application / payment of rent?

Most landlords have no problem accepting tenants who normally would receive Housing Benefit. However it has no bearing on how and when rent is to be paid. Housing Benefit payments are made to ABC every 4 weeks in arrears; rent is due every calendar month of your tenancy in advance, and any shortfall will have to be paid by you. It is your responsibility to insure that your rental account is paid up in full by your due date each month.

What is a Guarantor?

A Guarantor is an individual who is willing to guarantee the rent, that is to say, they agree to be legally responsible for the rent if you refuse or are unable to pay. The guarantor must be either: working, and earning (gross) more than 3 times the annual rent of the property; or, own their own home and be able to prove it.