First time renting guide

Renting your first property can be very daunting as it may be your first time moving out of home or you may need to relocate for work so we are here for you at every step of the way.

We have put together a short guide for first time renters covering a few key points that you need to take into account.

If you would like some advice or to have a chat with one of our specialists then call or pop into your local branch.

You can also check out the government's How To Rent: The Checklist for Renting in England.

Don't rush into letting, do your homework, know your budget, the area you want and your requirements and ensure the landlord or agent has a good reputation.
 

Consider your needs

What is your reason for moving, affordability & desired location.

Timescales

Have a clear view of what your timescales are and any possible limitations, like current notice periods.

Research

Look at local letting agents websites such as Thomas Morris and register for early property alerts. Talk to friends and colleagues who live in the area and check local information.

Visit a Letting Agent

At Thomas Morris we always welcome the opportunity to talk to all our customers so drop in for a coffee and a chat about the market anytime. Meet our people, talk through your needs and register with us.
 

Viewing properties

Viewings

Make time to view all the properties that you're interested in. In the current market we are finding that some properties are reserved at the first viewing, so make sure you have your finances in place so you can secure the property quickly.

When you're at the viewing make sure you take the time to have a good look round. Check the water pressure, find out how the heating works, check the size of the fridge, etc. If you're viewing a property and the previous tenants are still living there, make sure you know what's included and what belongs to them. 

Know how the property is managed

A number of landlords will leave the day to day management to the estate agent so they will deal with any maintenance issues on your behalf. Other landlords will manage the property themselves. It's good to know how your property is managed so you're aware of who to contact if there's a problem. 
 

Preparing for a tenancy

Viewings
View all relevant homes. In the current market we would suggest that you should be prepared to make decisions quickly as we are finding that some properties are reserved at the first viewing, this is when you submit your application to secure the property.

Application Forms
Complete these and return with original photographic identification and proof of address (e.g. utility bill)

Referencing
Your referencing will be processed taking approximately 7 working days and you will receive the terms agreed in writing. Thomas Morris will call you to discuss the outcome of the referencing.

Deposit and Tenancy Agreement
You will receive the tenancy agreement before the start of the tenancy and we must receive the deposit in our bank account before the tenancy starts.
 

During the tenancy

Tenancy
Once the agreement has been signed and the standing order set up you may collect the keys on the day your tenancy commences. Thomas Morris will provide you with the Energy Performance certificate, the Landlords Gas safety certificate (if relevant), contact details for your property and any emergency contractors details.

Move In
When you have moved in, Thomas Morris will send your proof of deposit registration for you to check, sign and return.

Inspections
If the property you are renting is managed by Thomas Morris we will be carrying out property visits.

Renewals
Your tenancy will usually continue on an ongoing basis unless you or the landlord decide to end it in line with the law.

Tenancy renewal
Most tenancies now run on an ongoing (periodic) basis and do not require a new fixed term unless agreed.

Serving notice
Notice must be given in accordance with your tenancy agreement and current legislation.

Signing paperwork
At Thomas Morris we use Docusign Digital Transaction Management to get most of our paperwork signed.  Docusign is the global standard for digitally signing documents without ever having to print them out.  It is legally recognised and documents can be received, read and signed from any device connected to the internet, anywhere in the world.

You will be sent an email when your paperwork is ready and with just a few clicks or taps you can open, review and sign your documents.  The completed legal copy is returned when all parties have signed and completed their part.

For more information simply visit www.docusign.co.uk or speak to a member of the Thomas Morris staff.
 

At the end of the tenancy

Continuing the tenancy

Most tenancies now run on an ongoing (periodic) basis. If you wish to stay in the property, it will usually continue automatically unless either you or the landlord decides to end it in line with the law.
If you would like to make any changes to the tenancy, such as updating the rent or terms, these must be carried out in accordance with current legislation and properly agreed between all parties.

Notice and ending the tenancy

A tenancy will continue until it is ended by either the tenant giving notice, or the landlord following the legal possession process.
As a tenant, the amount of notice you are required to give will depend on your tenancy agreement and the type of tenancy you have. You should always check your agreement carefully and speak to your landlord or agent if you are unsure.

Moving out and your deposit

At the end of the tenancy, the property should be returned in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear.
Providing there is no outstanding rent owed, and no cleaning or repairs are required, your security deposit will be returned to you in full.
If cleaning or repairs are needed, these will be agreed between you and the landlord and the cost deducted from your deposit, with the balance returned to you. If there is a dispute, the deposit protection scheme will provide a resolution service.