Information for Tenants

FINDING A PROPERTY
Our personnel are specially trained and equipped to assist Tenants to find properties to rent that will meet their needs. We maintain a database of properties available to rent and of prospective Tenants and their requirements. As properties become available, our first action is to contact waiting Tenants on the database, who’s requirements match the property. Typically, properties to rent become available about two months before occupancy date, so where possible it is advisable to start looking early.

VIEWINGS
Having identified a potentially suitable property, we will arrange a viewing. This will be at a time to suit you, and could be at evenings or week-ends, subject of course to the Landlords permission. All viewings will be accompanied by a member of staff, who will be able to provide immediate advice and answer any questions you may have.

OFFER / APPLICATION
Having decided on a property, you will need to complete a written application form. At this time any details or requirements can be provisionally agreed, such as occupancy date, duration of the letting, etc..

On application, a Reservation Deposit will be required. Assuming the rental proceeds, this will be deducted from the Fees due before occupation as outlined on the enclosed sheet. If we or the Landlorddecline your application it will be refunded. It will however not be refunded if you decide not to proceed for any reason, or if the tenancy fails to proceed due to incomplete or inaccurate information provided in the tenancy application.

REFERENCES
We will take references on behalf of the Landlord. Normally these will include your employer, any former landlord and a character reference. In addition a credit check will be undertaken.
Where a Tenant is unable to meet the required income or credit checks, the Tenant may have a Guarantor agree to underwrite any rent liabilities.

DEPOSIT
A deposit (or 'bond') is required prior to occupation. This is normally equal to one month's rent, but may be more. Check with our representative. Where we are managing the property, this is held by ourselves as stakeholders in a client account until the end of the tenancy. Where we are not managing the property it will be passed over to the Landlord.

The deposit is held to cover any breakages, damage, or other tenant liabilities. Where we are managing, at the end of the tenancy we will check the property in the presence of the Tenant and assess any damages and deductions due

Please note that the deposit cannot be used by the Tenant to cover rent.

ADMINISTRATION / AGENCY FEES
A fee is due to this company prior to the start of the tenancy to cover the Tenant's share of administration costs, including preparation of the tenancy agreement and any legal notices, referencing and credits checks, and check-in and check-out. Where an Independent Inventory Agent is used there may also be a fee from the Inventory agent for the check-in. Our fees are laid out on a separate sheet which should accompany this information.

AGENCY FEES AND CHARGES
Independent Inventory Agent can be arranged and cost supplied on request.

QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS

Is my money safe with Platinum?
Yes all money held on behalf of tenants are fully insured and protected by a Government approved scheme.

A refundable deposit, equivalent to 5 weeks rent held in my deposits scheme.
A holding deposit to reserve the property, equivalent to ones week rent.
Changes to the tenancy requested by the tenant, £50 (inc of vat) per amendment.
Early termination of the tenancy requested by the tenant, termination fee to be supplied upon request.

What is the minimum length of tenancies and do I have an agreement?
We have a minimum tenancy protected by an assured short hold tenancy agreement.

Do you accept housing benefit supported?
All applications are reviewed under their own merit all circumstances will be considered.