What length of tenancy is usual?

Generally speaking this is by agreement between landlord and tenant however, we do not arrange lettings of less than six months duration.  Most tenancy agreements are for a "Fixed Term" from six months to three years.

During the first six month period there is no right for either party to bring the tenancy to an end (except for breach of the contract terms) unless specifically agreed to the contrary.  After this 6 month period, a "Break Clause" as they are known can be useful in that it gives a tenant more flexibility.  Alternatively, it may also keep landlord's options open and offer a tenant less security.

Our "Standard agreement" is for 12 months with a break clause operable by either party to bring the tenancy to an end from the end of the sixth month by two calendar month notice.

How is the Rent paid?

Rent is usually paid per calendar month, i.e. the same amount each month regardless of how many days there are in that month.

Occasionally you may see rents advertised as "weekly".  Remember there are on average four and a third weeks in a calendar month.  Each month the rent is payable in advance, so the rent you pay on the 5th September is to 4th October inclusive.  The rent is paid by standing order (other than the first month - see below) from one account only, avoiding postage loss and difficulties such as being away.

The date the rent is due each month is the same as the date you commenced the tenancy.  If you started on the 5th September, your rent is due on the 5th of each month thereafter.

YOUR FIRST MONTH RENT must be cleared into our bank before you sign the tenancy agreement.  Cleared funds means that we need a cheque ten banking days before commencement, bank transfers a week before, or a bank draft on the day.  Our company does not accept cash under any circumstances.

How much Deposit is required?

The usual deposit is an amount equal to 5 weeks rent, although sometimes landlords may request more.  This must have cleared into our bank account when you sign the tenancy agreement.

Where we hold the deposit for an Assured Tenancy it is done under the rules of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme operated by The Dispute Service under a Government contract and as Stakeholders.  Otherwise the deposit is passed to the landlord who is responsible for holding it in accordance with the Housing Act 2004 and you have a right to check this with your landlord.