Ready to find your perfect home to rent in Sussex? Renting a property can be a daunting process, especially if you’re new to the market. At Alexander Philips, we strive to make the experience as seamless and transparent as possible for both our tenants and landlords. Our comprehensive guide to renting includes FAQs to provide key information for tenants.
Rent a property- how does referencing work?
Referencing involves various checks to verify your identity and determine your suitability to rent a property. It’s important for tenants to disclose any information that may affect the referencing process. Referencing will include employment verification, checks from previous landlords, credit checks and eligibility to live and work in the UK.
Homes to rent- when is a guarantor needed?
A guarantor may be required if your income or credit history doesn’t meet the landlord’s criteria. A guarantor must live in the UK and is committing to cover your rental payments if you are not able to do so. All guarantors are subject to referencing checks and must demonstrate earnings of 36 times the monthly rent.
Property letting- what is a tenancy agreement?
A tenancy agreement is a legally binding document outlining the terms and conditions of the tenancy. It protects the rights and responsibilities of both tenant and landlord.
Why is a tenancy deposit required?
A tenancy deposit protects the property against any damage during your tenancy agreement. It covers cleaning and damages beyond normal wear and tear, and non-payment of rent. An inventory will be conducted at the end of the tenancy to determine any necessary deductions.
All deposits must be held in a government-backed Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme. The deposit will be returned after a check-out service and an examination of the inventory. The report will be sent to both the tenant and landlord, and the deposit returned, minus any necessary deductions.
Who takes care of property repairs?
If the property is managed by Alexander Philips, you can contact us to report issues, and we will arrange necessary repairs. If the property is not managed by us, you would need to contact the landlord directly. This information is provided at the start of the tenancy. Any damage caused by the tenant will be subject to repair costs. Except in the case of emergencies, the landlord and managing agent must give tenants at least 24 hours’ notice if they wish to enter the property.
What are my obligations as a tenant?
Tenants must comply with the terms outlined in the tenancy agreement, including paying rent and household bills on time, reporting any damage to the letting agent or landlord, and maintaining the properties condition. Tenants are typically required to have a contents insurance policy that covers the value of their possessions and can also cover accidental damage to the landlord’s possessions.
Could the landlord increase the rent?
The landlord may review the rent after a specified period, as outlined in the tenancy agreement. Notice of a rent increase should be provided by the landlord or agent, and negotiations would be handled accordingly.
Is it possible to extend a lease?
It’s usually possible to renew the lease after the initial fixed term ends. It’s advisable to discuss lease renewal within the final few months of the initial term with the agent or landlord.
What if I want to move out of my rental property?
You must serve a notice period specified in the tenancy agreement before moving out. If you move out earlier, you may still be liable for rent and other fees.
Property letting Worthing
If you have any queries about your rental agreement or property letting, please contact a member of the team at Alexander Philips. Explore our current listings for homes to rent in Sussex
