Tenants FAQ
How do I view a property that I have seen on your website?
You can either call us on 02380 631 634 or email us at info@southresidential.co.uk and we will arrange a viewing for you.
Do I have to pay more for a fully furnished property?
There are properties that are let with different types of furnishings. For example unfurnished would mean the property comes with carpet, curtains and white goods only whereas a fully furnished property you would expect, sitting room furniture, a dining table and chairs, beds and other bits and pieces. South Residential will be able to provide you with a list of what the property comes with.
What fees are there?
- Reservation fee
This is a one off non refundable fee to reserve the property. - When might I need a Guarantor?
You may not be in full time employment or on a low income, so you may need a guarantor to support your tenancy. The guarantor will be as responsible as the tenant to ensure all monies due and obligations are met throughout the tenancy. - Admin Fee
There is an admin fee per person; this fee covers the cost of referencing and the administration of your application. Once the application has been approved we will ask you to sign our specially prepared tenancy agreement, which we will give you a copy of, for your records. Once the tenancy agreement has been entered into we will offset the reservation fee from your first month’s rent.
How much is the deposit and how much will I need to pay in the first month?
We will ask for a damage deposit (usually 1.5 times the monthly rent) (to be retained for the duration of the tenancy and not subject to interest.), and one month's rent is required in cleared funds (cash or banker's draft) prior to the release of keys. Rent is payable monthly, in advance by standing order.
How quick will I be able to move in?
Once you have made your choice, allow 10-14 days before you move in. This allows time for references and the preparation of the property although the timescale can be much shorter. However, it may be that the previous tenant has yet to move out, in which case more time may be required. South Residential will keep you informed along the way.
How do I pay the rent?
Rent is paid monthly by standing order/direct debit from your bank. This is set up to be withdrawn from your account 3 days before your rent day so that it arrives on the due date. By paying the rent this way ensures the rent is paid and that you never fall behind in your rental payments. However, if your circumstances change you must speak to us, for example you change banks or your employment situation changes as we can then help you to protect your tenancy. The last thing we want is for you to fall into arrears. Speak to one of our advisors who will be able to help you with this.
Who pays the council tax and other bills?
You do! All utility accounts at the property will have been closed in the Landlord's name. In all fully managed properties we will let the companies know that you are moving in and you will be responsible for opening an account in your name. We will agree the meter readings with you at check in and at check out, so that there is no confusion over liabilities.
When do I get my deposit back?
Your deposit which is equal to one and half's month rent, which is held in our client deposit account, subject to services provided to landlord and the new law "TDPS" under the housing act 2004 will be refunded subject to the property being left in a satisfactory condition and proof that all final utility bills have been paid.
What if something breaks in the property?
For properties under our management, any repairs required within the property will normally be attended to within 48 hours by a qualified trade’s person; however there will be exceptions where the costs will exceed £200.00. If this is the case we need to obtain the owners ok to action these repairs.
For properties managed by the landlord you will have their contact details in your tenancy agreement.
How can I be assured that the property is safe?
All properties have to have an up to date gas safety certificate before South Residential will allow the property to be let. So that you will have peace of mind that the property has had the necessary checks.
We will not be liable however for checking the electric or smoke alarms at the property, should the property be furnished South Residential will not be liable as to whether the furnishing comply with the up to date regulations. We will also obtain an up to date an Energy Performance Certificate in accordance with the regulation in force.
What about pets?
Most landlords are not keen on having pets around, however at South Residential being animal lovers ourselves we will do our upmost to find you and your friends a suitable home.