Tenant FAQs

The following section provides advice for new tenants and answers to questions frequently asked by tenants.

How do I start?

Start by choosing a property that appeals to you and then contact us. We can arrange a viewing and liaise with the landlord on your behalf. Before going ahead with a rental agreement, you will also need to provide references from your employer and bank. We also need one month’s rental in advance, along with a holding deposit (equivalent to one month’s rental) - in advance. The drawing up of the tenancy agreement will be charged to you at a cost of £145.00. Property application forms are available from our offices in Victoria Road or enquiries@rutherfordslettings.co.uk emailing us for details.

Signing the agreement

If you decide to go ahead and rent, you will be asked to sign a tenancy agreement. Make sure you read this through before signing and if necessary, ask questions about anything you don't understand. When you move in (and out), we will check an inventory and it's a good idea to be present during this process. We will give you a signed copy of the tenancy agreement and the inventory for your records.

What is a tenancy agreement?

It is a legally binding document between you and the landlord, applicable only to you and the property you are renting, that states the amount of rent, the length of the tenancy, your rights and responsibilities. Your agreement will be an Assured Shorthold Tenancy under the Housing Act 1988.

What are my responsibilities?

It's important to remember that responsibility for looking after the property rests with you as the tenant. Make sure you report any problems and always see that the building is secure. The tenant usually pays the utility bills such as gas, electricity, water, telephone, TV license and Council Tax applicable to the property during the course of the tenancy. We will make regular checks on the property, and we will arrange these with you to take place at a suitable time.

What if I want to renew or leave early?

We often agree the terms for renewal at the beginning of a rental and include them in the tenancy agreement. If you’re likely to leave before the end of the original term agreed, you will need break clauses to be written into the agreement, otherwise you are responsible for the rent until the end of the term agreed, unless a new tenant can be found.

What happens at the end of the tenancy?

If you leave the property in the condition in which you found it, no deductions will be made from your deposit and it should be returned shortly after you leave the property, providing the inventory check reveals no problems. You cannot set your deposit against the last rent payment due.

Do I have to pay a deposit/bond?

A tenancy deposit is required and is equivalent to a month’s rent. As letting agents, Rutherfords Lettings are members of the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).

What is the Tenancy Deposit Scheme?

The Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) has been developed to ensure that the deposits are protected and that disputes about their return are resolved swiftly, inexpensively and impartially. Any private landlord or agent offering residential property for rent is eligible to apply to join TDS. For full details visit HYPERLINK "http://www.thedisputeservice.co.uk" www.thedisputeservice.co.uk.

Can I change my utilities supplier?

If you wish to change your utilities supplier we ask that, in the first instance, you contact us for advice. To change supplier you will require permission from the landlord.

Do I need insurance?

You will require both insurance for accidental damage to fixtures and fittings and contents insurance.