Moving for the first time can be a confusing experience. All agents operate differently; therefore, its best to speak to the agency and be clear on what is required of you to successfully move into a property. Please see a general guideline below.
Referencing Guideline
You must complete a credit reference application form for each person who wants to be on the tenancy agreement. The results of the credit search will be shared with the landlord of the property you are applying for. If your application is rejected, we will not be able to give reasons but you will be able to see the data held by the credit reference company. If you know you have adverse credit history: for example CCJs, CDs (Scotland) or a Bankruptcy order then you may still be able to proceed if you declare this. If you do not declare it then your application will be rejected.
We require proof of residency and identity. Acceptable forms of proof are:
- For residency - A recent (within the last three months) utility/council tax/mobile phone bill, tenancy agreement
- A photo style driving licence or passport - If your nationality is not within the European Economic Union you will have to provide evidence of official permission to reside in the UK for the term of the tenancy.
You will need an income of 2.5 times the annual rent. For example: The rent is £500 per month this equals £6000 per year. You will need an income of 2.5 X £6000 = £15,000 per year. If your income is less than this than you will need a guarantor.
A Guarantor is someone who promises to honour the terms of the tenancy if you do not. A suitable person to be a guarantor must:
- Be a UK or Isle of Man resident.
- Have a good credit history - no CCJs, CDs (Scotland) or Bankruptcy.
- Complete a Guarantor Application Form and pay a guarantor fee.
- Have an income of 3 times the yearly rent.
- Sign the tenancy agreement BEFORE you can move in.
Release of Keys
We cannot release keys under any circumstances until the first month’s rent, the security deposit and our fees have been paid in cleared funds. Cleared funds are cash, bankers draft, BACS payment cleared in our account, building society draft, or payment by credit or debit card.
Security Deposit
A security deposit will be taken at the start of the tenancy. Any security deposits for properties with monthly rental less than £2083.00 have to be registered in one of the government accredited schemes:
http://www.thedisputeservice.co.uk/
http://www.mydeposits.co.uk/
http://www.depositprotection.com/