Frequently Asked Questions

Do you take DSS tenants?

Unfortunately we are not able to assist those on housing benefits.

What is the minimum term of a tenancy?

Tenancies are granted for a minimum of 6 months, and renewed every 6 or 12 months, although an assured shorthold tenancy can be anything up to three years in length before renewal is necessary if both parties agree. If you wish to leave the property, you will need to give one months notice in writing one month prior to the end of the fixed term.

How do I reserve a property?

To reserve a property, you will need to pay a minimum Holding Deposit of £300. The Holding Deposit will be deducted from the total amount you have to pay when you move in to the property. (The amount you have to pay when you move in is usually the equivalent of two month's rent, being one month's rent as a security deposit, and one month's rent in advance plus the administration fee).

If the landlord declines to grant the tenancy for any reason, the money would be returned to you. However, if you decide not to go ahead with the tenancy, the Holding Deposit will not be refunded

What references will you need from me?

As a minimum we will require satisfactory references from your employer, current or previous landlord and your bank. We may also ask for a personal reference, and in some cases, a guarantor. We will also run a credit check on you, so that we can reassure the landlord that you can afford the rent.

In some cases, we will use an independent referencing company to source and evaluate the references.

What will happen to my deposit?

From 6th April 2007, security deposits need to be either held by a third-party custodian company or insured for the duration of the tenancy. In the case of properties managed by Tenant Direct we will be insuring deposits, however in the case of 'Letting Only' properties it will be for the individual landlords to decide whether your deposit will be insured or handed to a custodian company, in both cases you will be informed in writing within 14 days of the beginning of your tenancy as to how your deposit money is protected.

The government has initiated the custodian scheme to help resolve disputes over how much of the deposit a landlord can hold back to pay for any repairs or damages. The custodian will ensure that any amount that is withheld is justified, and that both parties are treated fairly, as is also the case for insured deposits.

How will my rent be collected?

Rents are normally quoted for a calendar month, and paid a month in advance. We will ask that you complete a standing order form on the signing of your tenancy agreement and will set it up directly with your bank.

What other bills will I need to pay as a tenant?

You will have to pay the water rates for the property, and the gas, electricity and telephone bills. You will also be responsible for the council tax on the property unless you are a student, in which case you will need to prove to the Council that you are in full-time education.