Renting a property offers the ultimate in flexibility. With a highly experienced, qualified, tenancy management team, tenants can be absolutely sure of the best service, security and navigation through potential pitfalls. Backed by an extensive knowledge of the local market our lettings team will help match you to a property that suits your requirements. Backed up by the Bluestone Properties vision of honest, transparent advice with service at the forefront of everything we do.
FAQ's
Do I have to pay a deposit?
Yes, we require you to pay the equivalent of one and a half months rent as a deposit. This is paid on or before the day you sign your tenancy agreement and is held by us in a stakeholder account and registered with the "Tenancy Dispute Service".
How do I get my deposit back?
After an inventory check and condition inspection a dilapidations report will be sent to the landlord of the property, if there is no dilapidations the return of the deposit will be processed quicker than if any remedial works are required. You cannot off set your deposit against any rent payment due.
Who has been holding my deposit?
Unless you are advised otherwise, for instance if we provide a "Let Only Service" to the landlord, then Bluestone Properties or your landlord will have retained your deposit in a designated client deposit account and this is placed in the insurance backed "Tenancy Dispute Service". This will ensure the safety of the money and that the correct amount will be returned to you – or apportioned to the landlord if anything is missing or damaged.
What are my responsibilities?
These should be clearly set out in your tenancy agreement, which you should read carefully before you sign. If in doubt, ask us.
How long does it all take before I can move in?
We expect it to take a minimum of three full working days but not normally longer than 5 full working days, to take up and confirm references but this will depend on the speed of your referees responding to the referencing request. You will need to arrange a bank transfer covering the first rent period and the deposit. You will not be allowed possession of the property until all this has been done.
How long is a typical let?
The minimum term of our assured short hold tenancy agreement is six months, however most are signed for 12 months and some for longer.
What happens if I want to stay on or leave early?
Tenancies are frequently renewed. If you're likely to leave before the end of the original term agreed, you must negotiate break clauses to be written into the agreement however the landlord may not accept a break clause in the tenancy agreement. If the landlord does not accept a break clause you will remain responsible for the rent until the end of the term agreed, unless a new and satisfactory tenant can be found usually at your expense. Finding a replacement tenant is at the Landlord or Landlords Agent's discretion and he/they may decline to do this.
What else do I have to pay for?
The tenant pays the utility bills such as gas, electricity, water and telephone during the course of the tenancy, T.V. licence, etc as well as the Council Tax applicable to the property. However some lettings, particularly student lettings are all inclusive. The tenancy is only all inclusive if the tenancy agreement specifically states it.
What must I do at the end of a tenancy?
You must ensure that you provide Bluestone Properties or the Landlord at least thirty days written notice of your intention to vacate. You must ensure you fulfil your obligations stated in the tenancy agreement to leave the property in the condition it was in at the start, accepting fair wear and tear. If you fail to do so deductions may need to be made from your deposit in line with tenancy deposit scheme regulations.
Do I have to supply references etc?
Yes you will need to supply: Current employment information including role and salary information (if applicable), Six months bank or building society statements, and previous landlord information. These are provided to confirm your ability to meet the rental commitment.
What is a tenancy agreement?
It is a legally binding document between you and the landlord, applicable to the property you are renting that states the amount of rent, the length of the tenancy, your rights and responsibilities. Your agreement will most probably be an Assured Shorthold tenancy.