Key questions to ask before you start your rental journey
Do I have to pay fees to the landlord or letting agent?
Since 1 June 2019, most fees charged in connection with a tenancy are banned. A charge to reserve a property is permitted but it must be refundable and it cannot equate to more than 1 weeks’ rent. Viewing fees and tenancy set-up fees are not allowed.
How much security deposit do I need to pay?
If the total annual rent is less than £50,000, the maximum deposit is 5 weeks’ rent. If the annual rent is £50,000 or above, the maximum deposit is 6 weeks’ rent. The deposit must be refundable at the end of the tenancy, usually subject to the rent being paid and the property is returned in good condition, and it must be ‘protected’ during the tenancy.
How long will the tenancy be for?
Most landlords offer tenancies for a fixed term of 6 (minimum) or 12 months. It is possible to negotiate a longer tenancy. Alternatively, you could agree to a tenancy which rolls over on a monthly basis, this may happen once your initial fixed term ends.
What documents do you require?
Your landlord will want to confirm your identity, immigration status, credit history and employment status. Landlords in England must check that all people aged 18 or over, living in their property as their only or main home have the right to rent in the UK and must carry out this check before the start date of your tenancy agreement.
Will I need a guarantor?
If you do not earn enough (usually 2.5 x the £ annual rent) then your landlord may require a guarantor to guarantee the rent. This person will need to provide evidence that they can pay the rent for the property.
Zero Deposit Option
Some landlords are happy to accept a deposit replacement scheme instead of a cash deposit. Where this is the case you have the right to choose, you do not have to accept this zero-deposit alternative. If you do consider this please check the terms and conditions to see if it is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA).
Bills included or excluded?
It is usual practice that the tenant will pay for the bills such as electricity, gas, council tax, water and communications. If they are included in the rent it will be explained in the property details and the tenancy agreement.
Can I have a pet in my home?
This is up to the landlord and it is important that you check before you go ahead a purchase a new pet, or notify your landlord or letting agent when you start looking for a rental property.
Can I smoke in my rental property?
This is up to the landlord and it is important that you check before you go ahead if you are a smoker. Some landlords may allow smoking in the garden or outside area, however, smoke does carry on clothing and through open windows, so it could be a no to smoking in any part of the premises.
★★★★★
★★★★★
29th November 2023
MaryLawrencia Owusu said:
TO UZMAN I SAY THANK YOU FOR MAKING MY STAY COMFORTABLE..THANK YOU
★★★★★
1st March 2023
Abid Hussain said:
Very good Lettings company and polite friendly service on the telephone. I would recommend checking out Let’s Rent before other property agents.
★★★★★
21st February 2023
Jacqueline Graham said:
Re: Usman Ayub – Lets Rent Letting & Management
Prior to meeting Usman, the experience in trying to rent property in Bristol for
over 6 months was demoralising.
A Let's Rent representative (Seb) contacted me by phone to say they'd
managed to alter a few appointments for the viewing & I would be me by
Usman.
He was punctual & informative throughout prior to our entrance to the
building. He informed me of the layout, security & access which therefore
covered all the H&S criteria in case there was an issue.
Once the viewing was over, Usman assured me that he will send over the
documents via email for me to complete, which was actioned without delay.
Throughout the legal itinerary & required information, he kept me informed
which enabled me to clear up some issues the automated system rejected
unbeknownst to me.
Usman is a valid member of the team and the functionality of this business
benefits with him as a valid member.
★★★★★
12th September 2022
Sam Price said:
Seb's been a great help throughout our tenancy with lets rent. He's managed to keep us informed and up to date on our ongoing maintenance during the year.
He's very professional and undoubtedly will have a great future career.
★★★★★
7th September 2022
Sue Gunning said:
Brilliant!! Stress free, will go lets rent everytime,very polite and kept us informed off every veiwing and smoothly it all went.
★★★★★
31st August 2022
Michael Maxwell said:
Really genuine and nice employees. They have been great in communicating with all requests promptly and ensuring we get a great service.
★★★★★
31st August 2022
Richard Lewis said:
Thank you for all your efforts over the years! it cannot be understated how important your support has been to making this bearable!
★★★★★
31st August 2022
Tom leng said:
Adil and the team are fantastic. Professional and personable and always available. You couldn't ask for much more, I've recommended to friends and family.
★★★★★
31st August 2022
Ian Gargett said:
Let's Rent have let my flat again and again with fantastic service. We are going through the process of finding new tenants now and they have found some excellent candidates. Highly recommended.
★★★★★
31st August 2022
Paul Taylor’s said:
Good letting agents , a very smooth transaction . Always on time with their repairs and contractors are nice people