Contacting Landlords
Finding accommodation in the private rented sector can take considerable time and effort. When you have found a property that you can afford and meet your needs you will need to contact the landlord or letting agent advertising the accommodation to arrange a viewing.
It is important that you make a good impression on your landlord, as they will be looking for assurances that you will be able to look after their property and pay the rent on time. Therefore, it is important that when viewing the property you try to be on time and to be clean and smart. As with a job interview, you are trying to impress, so remember to be polite, respectful and assertive.
You should also be prepared to answer questions the landlord or agent may have.
Below are some examples questions that you may be asked:
- What and where was your previous accommodation?
- Why did you leave your previous accommodation?
- Can you get a reference from your previous landlord?
- What are your financial circumstances? (This includes whether you are working, claiming benefit or looking for work).
- How old are you?
- Do you have any personal references? (These could be character references from employers/tutors etc, and are useful if you have had difficulties with a previous landlord)
- How long do you intend to stay at the property? (Most tenancies are generally for six months, although landlords generally prefer tenants who want to stay as long as possible).
If possible, you should try and bring a friend or family member that has rented privately before. It is often useful to have a second perspective and, particularly if your first impressions of the property are good or you are eager to move as soon as possible, you may overlook something or forget to ask important questions. Click here to view our tenant checklist, which lists things you may wish to ask about the property, as well as the tenancy agreement.
Most letting agencies will require a fee from you if they find you accommodation. This fee is non-refundable, even if you do not move into the accommodation.
The Local Government Association has also produced guidance on contacting landlords, which you can access here.
Documents to Take With You
When you go to view a property, try to take a Pre-tenancy Determination Form (PTD) and, if you are on benefit, a housing benefit claim form with you. If the property is suitable and an agreement is made with the landlord, you can fill out these forms on the spot, as there is a section that needs to be completed by the landlord.
The landlord may ask for references and proof of your income before they agree to let the property to you. It will, therefore, be useful if you can take these forms with you when you view the property.
Remember, the key points to consider when renting are:
- Can you afford it?
- Is the location right for you?
- Is the property and area safe?
- Is it clean and in a good state of repair?
When you go to view a property, try to take a Pre-tenancy Determination Form (PTD) and, if you are on benefit, a housing benefit claim form with you. If the property is suitable and an agreement is made with the landlord, you can fill out these forms on the spot, as there is a section that needs to be completed by the landlord.
The landlord may ask for references and proof of your income before they agree to let the property to you. It will, therefore, be useful if you can take these forms with you when you view the property.
Remember, the key points to consider when renting are:
- Can you afford it?
- Is the location right for you?
- Is the property and area safe?
- Is it clean and in a good state of repair?