Will I be Referenced?
Yes, you will be referenced. We require to conduct a credit check and normally request an employer and previous landlord reference (where one or both of these is not possible, if you were a homeowner or are self-employed, we may request references from other parties).
Do you charge a fee to Tenants?
No, never. Doing so is illegal in Scotland, you should never pay an agency a fee to view or secure a Tenancy.
What Criteria do I need to meet?
We recommend prospective tenancies for consideration to our Landlords where the Applicants can provide three years worth of address history and employment details. We would look for applicants to be permanently employed and meet the affordability criteria of their gross monthly income (combined if more than one tenant) meets at least 3 times the monthly rent. If this is not the case then the landlord may still proceed, but expect to provide a UK based guarantor or pay a larger deposit of up to twice the monthly rent.
How much security deposit will I need to pay?
We normally ask for a security deposit equivalent to 1 month’s rent, unless it is agreed with the landlord to hold a larger amount (to be negotiated at the offer stage). This security deposit will be held by an approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme. Once we have your application and the landlord is happy for us to proceed with referencing you, we request a holding deposit from you (normally the full deposit amount) in order for us to remove the property from the market and commence credit checking and referencing.
What is the Tenancy Deposit Scheme?
Since 2012, tenants’ deposits are no longer held by a letting agent or landlord but in a government approved third party scheme. Any deductions that might be made for cleaning, damages, excessive wear and tear or rent arrears need to be applied for from the scheme so that the tenant has the opportunity to argue their case if they disagree.
Will there be an inventory carried out? How do I agree with this?
An inventory is an essential document which provides a written and photographic record of the property and it’s contents at the beginning of the tenancy. Our inventory contains details in full on all fixtures, fittings and contents of the property and it will be checked after the tenancy expires. You will have 7 days to check, make any comments and sign the inventory online after you move into the property.
We will provide a photographic inventory along with a written report, you can view and sign these with online links for convenience.
What else should I do when moving into a Property?
Please set up the monthly payment so that it clears by the date specified on your Tenancy Agreement (you may need to set up your payment to come out of your account 2-3 days before your rent due to ensure it clears into our account on time).
Contents Insurance – You are responsible for the insurance of your own contents and accidental damage to the landlord’s belongings. It is a requirement of your tenancy agreement that you MUST hold adequate contents insurance for the property.
TV License – You are responsible for obtaining a TV licence if you watch TV in the property, unless otherwise agreed with the Landlord.
Utility Suppliers – You are responsible for informing suppliers ASAP with meter readings (see inventory for readings and suppliers) and your personal details.
Council Tax – You are responsible for setting up and closing your council tax account.
Inventory – We recommend you taking photographs of the condition of your property when you enter. You should return the inventory, including notes of any defects, to us within 7 days.
