We really value great tenants and work hard to provide a caring and trusting approach.
We know how important it is for a mutually benefitting relationship for both Tenant and Landlord.
Are you interested in renting a property through Spence Willard? Read more about the step-by-step process below…
Every tenant is different, so with an initial enquiry we identify your requirements and personal situation. If you see a property you like, we can arrange a viewing and get to know you a little better. The more we glean about your wish list we’ll be far better placed to find the right match. A Holding Deposit is only required once we proceed to the application stage.
- To move forward (subject to references and contract), we need to collect a refundable Holding Deposit (capped at no more than one week’s rent).
- Payment of the holding deposit demonstrates your commitment to rent the property whilst referencing checks take place. Where you later enter into a tenancy agreement the holding deposit will be refunded.
- Where an agreement to rent the property is not entered in to there may be grounds for the holding deposit not to be refunded. You should, therefore, be confident in your commitment to rent the property and the quality of your references. If you have any concerns, then you may wish to discuss these at the outset.
An independent company Van Mildert, undertakes all referencing for our applicants. After we receive your Holding Deposit, Van Mildert will contact you to request detailed information to support your application. They verify affordability based on income and if applicable, information relating to savings.
- Credit rating and financial history for any irregularities.
- Previous landlord references are also followed up.
- Right to Rent in the UK
- Check for fraud, bankruptcy and County Court Judgements.
Most tenancies are covered by the 1988 and 1996 Housing Acts and start with an initial 6-month agreement. At the end of the term, it can easily be renewed or roll on as a periodic agreement. It’s possible to agree a longer initial tenancy if both parties are in favour. Please see below for contracts relating to Non-Housing Act tenancies.
Rent is always paid in advance. Prior to the start of a tenancy, it is usual for the 1st months rent to be paid together with a deposit (capped at the equivalent to five weeks’ rent). Funds have to be cleared in our Client Account on or before the last working day prior to the tenancy start date, unless other arrangements have been agreed.
It is important to note that under the terms of most agreements, the tenant is responsible for all utilities, council tax and licenses at the property.
Sometimes we issue a contract, which falls outside of the 1988 and 1996 Housing Acts, for example: If the tenancy is for a company let; if the property is not the tenants’ main residence or if it is a short let or holiday let. This contract is known as Non-Housing Act Tenancy agreement. The same procedure applies for reference collection and application fees. The only change is if the tenancy is a company let, the company itself is referenced and the tenant is named as the permitted occupier. In this case, the tenancy can only be for a fixed term and not roll onto a periodic agreement.
We are members of The Property Ombudsman Scheme, which is a government approved scheme to provide independent redress in relation to disputes between consumers and property agents.
Certificate of membership for the RICS Client Money Protection Scheme for Property Agents
