At Richardson we strive to ensure that both landlords and tenants receive a quality service at all stages throughout the tenancy process. As members of RICS, ARLA and TDS, you have the assurance that we act within strict Codes of Conduct and that your deposit money is protected. If you haven’t rented before, or are unsure of any aspect, then please contact our office for further explanation prior to arranging any viewings.
Pre-Tenancy
If you see a property listed by ourselves on Rightmove, On The Market or on this website, please contact the Stamford office by telephone or email to register your interest. In the first instance we will send out a comprehensive digital video tour that will give you a guided tour of both the interior and exterior of the property. Thereafter, if you would like to see the house in person please re-contact the Stamford office to arrange a viewing.
With effect from the 1st June 2019 and the implementation of The Tenant Fees Act 2019 we can no longer charge tenants referencing fees or tenancy administration fees. Applying to rent the property is therefore free and simple to use via the online Vouch system. All persons over the age of 18 will need to complete a Tenancy Application form and will be named in the Tenancy Agreement. We will take up references which will include a credit check, current employment details, previous landlord/letting agent and if self-employed; accounts and income details.
Tenancy Agreement
Our standard RICS Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreements are usually for a period of either six or twelve months dependent upon the circumstances of both parties. The Tenancy Agreement will fully detail the terms and conditions on which you are taking the tenancy plus any other special conditions that relate to that specific property. A Schedule of Condition of the property forms an important part of the tenancy agreement. On first entering the property it is important that you immediately notify us of any observations as the Schedule of Condition will form the basis of any claim for damages at the end of the tenancy.
Rental Payments
The first month’s rent is payable in advance along with the deposit. All future rent payments are made in advance by standing order either directly to our Client Account or to the landlord where we do not manage the letting.
Security Deposit
All of our deposits taken for Assured Shorthold Tenancies are protected by The Dispute Service (TDS). We hold a deposit the equivalent of 5 weeks rent as stakeholder on behalf of landlords and tenants and any issues at the end of the tenancy are referred to the TDS for independent arbitration.
Tenants Obligations
Throughout the term of the tenancy the responsibility for the Utilities and Council Tax charges along with the household management of the property rests with the tenant. Tenants are required to maintain the property and to provide adequate background heat and ventilation so as to prevent the build up of mould and mildew on cold surfaces.
Property Visits
All properties Fully Managed by us will be subject to periodic inspections. The purpose of these visits is to check the condition of the property and to invite feedback from the tenant on any repairs or maintenance issues that require attention.
Tenant Fees
As well as paying the rent, you may also be required to make the following permitted payments during the term of the tenancy.
Payment of up to £ 50 including VAT if you want to vary the tenancy agreement
Payment of interest for the late payment of rent at a rate of 3% over Bank of England base rate
Payment of up to £ 50 including VAT for the reasonably incurred costs for the loss of keys
Payment of any unpaid rent and the landlords reasonable costs associated with an early termination of the tenancy agreement
