The property renting process.
This “How to Rent” Guide is all you’ll need to get you going on your renting journey. As residential letting specialists working within the private rented sector across Manchester, Derbyshire and Cheshire, we pride ourselves on providing top-quality and reliable letting services and support for tenants and landlords alike.
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There’s nobody more passionate about property than Jordan Fishwick, read our Google reviews to see what our many happy Customers have to say about working with us.
How to rent a property with Jordan Fishwick??
Renting a property can sometimes feel more complicated and frustrating than needed. Whether it’s your first time renting a property, want to find out about the up-to-date version of the UK renting process, or you need a refresher on some of the steps, we have created this checklist for renting to act as a comprehensive rent guide for current and prospective tenants.
The Jordan Fishwick How to Rent Guide::
Step 1
Determine your budget
To establish your rental budget, calculate your total monthly income, including salary and other income, then deduct your existing expenses, such as bills, food shops, and transport costs to find your disposable income. The general rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30% of your monthly income on rent, however, this may vary depending on your financial situation and the market. Bear in mind additional costs, including the deposit, utility bills, insurance, and council tax. Ensuring your rent is sustainable and manageable, as well as allowing you to accumulate savings is critical to your financial stability in the ever-changing UK rental market.
Step 2
Property Search
Begin your rental property search by defining requirements like location, size, and amenities. Utilise online platforms for listings with filters, and consider estate agents for exclusive options. Don’t overlook social media groups and local ads. Carefully review property descriptions for key details. Stay vigilant, check for new listings, and be ready to act swiftly, especially in competitive areas. Closely examine tenancy agreements and seek legal advice if needed to fully understand your tenant rights and responsibilities in the UK, or read this useful guide from the UK Government
Step 3
Property Viewing
Thoroughly inspect the property’s condition, checking for signs of wear and tear, dampness, or structural issues. Ensure that appliances are in good working order, and evaluate the efficiency of heating and insulation. Investigate the neighbourhood, considering proximity to amenities, public transportation, and local schools if relevant. Examine the property’s security features, such as locks and alarms. Take note of the overall cleanliness and maintenance of the premises. Additionally, assess the natural lighting and ventilation in the space. A careful examination of these elements will help you make an informed decision and ensure the rental property aligns with your needs and preferences.
Step 4
Application
When applying to rent a property, individuals aged eighteen or over, who will be included in the Tenancy Agreement, must complete an Application Form. This form requires you to provide personal information like your name, contact details, employment history, proof of income, and references. Occasionally, you may be asked to include a brief statement explaining your reasons for wanting to rent the property. Ensuring the accuracy and comprehensiveness of your application is crucial to make a positive impression and increase your chances of securing the desired rental property. To indicate your commitment, a payment is necessary when submitting the application, which is held against expenses. It’s important to note that this upfront payment, may be non refundable if you fail to rent the property in a given time frame, or give false or misleading information in order to get the property. The fee will be retained by the agent or landlord for any expenses incurred during this time.
Step 5
Credit and Background Check
When applying to rent in the UK, expect credit and background checks, standard for assessing your rental history and financial stability. These references obtained for the landlord may involve a bank reference, a credit reference, an employer’s or accountant’s reference, and, if relevant, a prior landlord’s reference. These checks help landlords assess tenant reliability and financial capability, ensuring a mutually beneficial rental arrangement. They also gauge your tenant reliability, while income proof may be needed to demonstrate financial stability.
Step 6
Tenancy Agreement
The tenancy agreement, also known as the lease agreement, serves as a legal contract between you and the landlord, detailing the rental terms and conditions, encompassing rent amount, lease duration, responsibilities, and rules. It’s essential to carefully review this document to ensure you’re comfortable with the terms it contains. In cases where you feel adjustments are necessary, like rent amount, when you pay rent, utilities, or requested repairs, engage in discussions and negotiations with the landlord. Make sure you clarify any parts you are unsure about so you have a thorough understanding of the lease. Once both parties reach a mutual agreement on the terms, proceed to sign the tenancy agreement.
Step 7
Payment
When securing a UK rental property, initial payments include the security deposit, safeguarding the landlord from potential damages or unpaid rent. This deposit is held by Jordan Fishwick or transferred to the landlord, it remains inaccessible until you vacate the property, confirm rent payments, and agree on tenant fees, such as any damage expenses. Notably, this deposit accrues no interest.
Furthermore, Tenancy Deposit Protection rules, effective since April 6, 2007, mandate landlords or agents to use a government-endorsed scheme to protect your deposit. This guarantees your right to reclaim part or all of the deposit when due and simplifies dispute resolution. Within 28 days of deposit payment, your landlord or agent must share details on deposit protection, the scheme’s contact information, and dispute resolution procedures upon tenancy completion.
Step 8
Move-In Inspection
On move in, a close inspection of the property, referring to your inventory, is important. It is imperative that you return this document with any comments or points that you disagree with. Review and agreement on this inventory at the start of your tenancy is vital as it underpins potential damage claims by the landlord. This meticulous documentation ensures clarity and safeguards both tenants and landlords.
Step 9
Utilities
When setting up a tenancy we will notify the current utility suppliers and the council tax of the change of occupant. You will also have the opportunity to choose your supplier or retain the current provider. We take meter readings for the inventory but always strongly advise tenants to do this themselves to have on record. Additionally, consider arranging renter’s insurance to protect your personal belongings from theft, damage, or other covered events. This insurance provides valuable peace of mind throughout your tenancy, safeguarding your possessions.
Step 10
Obligations and responsibilities
You’re all moved in and set up in your rented home! During your tenancy, it’s vital to understand the key aspects of both the tenant and the agent’s obligations.
Tenant’s obligations
- Rental payments – Tenant’s must pay rent in full and on time. Paying rent can be done in advance via standing order, and it’s essential to promptly communicate with Jordan Fishwick or your Landlord in case of financial difficulties.
- Property upkeep – You bear responsibility for the property’s upkeep. It’s crucial to report issues like gas or electrical problems and water leaks immediately and ensure the property is secure when unattended. During winter, preventive measures must be taken to prevent freezing of water, pipework, and heating systems. For certain requests, such as hanging pictures or painting walls, you must first receive the landlord’s permission
- Rules & regulations – In leasehold properties, primarily flats and maisonettes, tenants are obligated to adhere to the rules and regulations that apply to all residents within the building, as specified in the head lease.
LETTING Agent obligations
The specific obligations of Jordan Fishwick depend on the services provided to the Landlord, which could include;
- Letting and Property Management
- Letting Only
- Letting and Rent Collection.
You will receive information about the applicable services before your tenancy begins. For further details on a specific property, contact your local Jordan Fishwick letting agent branch.
Find out more about renting in England with the latest version of the Government Checklist for Renting document, with information on the responsibilities of the tenant and the landlord, tenancy renewable and protection from eviction
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Jordan Fishwick is one of the largest estate agents in the North West. We offer the highest level of professional service to help you find the perfect property for you. Buy, Sell, Rent and Let properties with Jordan Fishwick – the agents with the personal touch.
Rated 4.7 for satisfaction.
I dealt with Jordan & Fishwick New Mills and Disley offices and they were exceptional people to deal with. They took all the stress out of an extremely stressful situation for me. Elizabeth and Paul were both so professional, and every other person on their team with whom I spoke was always so helpful and cheerful. Nothing was too much trouble. The house sold within days of going on the market, but, as Jordan Fishwick say – their work starts AFTER that! I had help and guidance with all sorts of issues and Elizabeth always had listening ear, as well as a solution. I had already received glowing reports from both my son and daughter, whose respective house sales/purchase had also been handled by this amazing estate agency, so Jordan Fishwick can’t come more highly recommended.
You engage an estate agent, but you gain a friend. Thank you all so very much.
Disley & New Mills Offices
Beth has been amazing in securing a rental property for myself. Beth was extremely professional and efficient, ensuring I was able to secure the rental that was being advertised.
Jordan Fishwick should be proud to have Beth as part of their team, as she is an asset to the company. Thank you again 🙂
Macclesfield Office
After my house was on the market for three months, I spoke to the Jordan Fishwick team for an evaluation. Following their assessment I decided to move to them. The communications are efficient, timely and effective. They arranged viewers quickly and generated a high level of interest. When the original offer fell through, which was out of their control, they quickly re-marketed the house and generated interest. Once a new buyer was in place, the team ensures the whole process ran smoothly.
I’d highly recommend the team and Scott, my point of contract. Friendly, effective and accountable.
Sale Office
