Tenants – what do you need to check before deciding?

There are various basic things to check as a tenant to make sure you have all of the correct information to make a properly balanced decision that should enable you to stay for a secure and safe tenancy:

• The length of tenancy – make sure of the landlords intentions but bear in mind events can happen that change the most solid of plans.
• What restrictions are there – the basic ones are children, housing benefit, pets and smoking. There might also be some longstanding covenants and restrictions that prevent or preclude something happening; especially if the property is a flat!
• The bills – is anything included in the rent?
• Fixtures and fittings – are they satisfactory and what is required or surplus to demand.
• Smoke Alarms –is there one on each floor and has it been checked to make sure it is working, as well as being in date (most have a 10 year lifespan).
• If there are solid fuel appliances are there carbon monoxide detectors correctly located nearby to each item?
• Safety – does the property look safe and does it suit your requirements, especially if you have young children or older relatives either living with you or visiting.
• The legal paperwork – check the agreement to be used and make sure it is worded correctly, giving all the information you require and not having any unlawful clauses.

Details of the above can be found in the How to Rent guide, which gives you an overall guideline to renting a property. Professional advice should be taken before agreeing to take the property if there is any uncertainty!

If you need any advice or further information, get in touch with Phil Keddie at phil@sunshinerl.co.uk.