Frequently Asked Questions - Rentals London

As a prospective tenant, you’ll probably have many questions and we’ve tried to answer as many here as we can. If there is anything else you need to know please email us at info@rentals-london.co.uk or call us on +44 20 7433 6670.

• What is the minimum amount of time I can rent a property on a short let or a long let?
  

  The minimum amount of time you can rent a property is six months. While properties are available for shorter periods, they can be quite expensive.

• Why should I choose a property through Rentals London when there are so many other companies offering similar services?

  Rentals London works with Benham and Reeves Residential Lettings who are London’s largest ‘lettings only’ agency with more than 50 years’ experience in the London market. We have an extensive database of properties throughout the capital and unrivalled expertise helping tenants to choose a property and simplify the entire lettings process, from selection right through to moving in.

• What kind of houses or apartments can you offer me?

  We have a huge selection of rental properties throughout London, from studios to six bedroom mansions.  Whatever your needs, we can help you find a home that suits your budget and your lifestyle.

• Which parts of the city do you cover?

  By working with Benham & Reeves Residential Lettings, Rentals London has access to eight offices throughout the most sought-after locations in London; Hampstead, Highgate, Beaufort Park, City and Docklands, Hyde Park, Kensington, Knightsbridge, St. John’s Wood and West Hampstead. And wherever you choose to live, we can tell you everything you need to know about the local area so that you can make an informed choice.

• How do I arrange to view a property?

  Just give us a call and register for a property visit. One of our team will accompany you to the property at a time that suits you, including in the evening and at weekends if this is more convenient.

• How do I express an interest in a property?

  Once you’ve decided you’d like to rent a particular property, we submit a proposal to the landlord. When the client and the landlord have agreed a price and other terms and conditions, we apply for your references and prepare a tenancy agreement.

• How can you help if there is a dispute with the landlord?

  In rare cases, a dispute between a landlord and a tenant is unavoidable. Should a dispute arise, we will do everything we can to help both parties reach an agreement.

• How do I know what I should find in the property?

  A full independent inventory is prepared which is signed and agreed by both the tenant and the landlord. This is agreed before the tenant moves in and prior to vacating the property.

• What sort of deposit do I have to pay before I occupy the property?

  You will have to pay a deposit equivalent to 6 weeks’ rent which is paid in advance. The deposit is retained in accordance with a custodial scheme - paid directly to the Government to be held for the duration of the tenancy or an insurance backed scheme which is paid to Benham and Reeves Residential Lettings with monies held in a separate account as stakeholders on behalf of both landlord and tenant, neither of whom has access to these funds unless agreed between the parties.

• How and when will my deposit be refunded?

  Your money will be refunded by cheque or cash as agreed between you and the landlord. It will be refunded when you vacate the property and after due inspection. The amount refunded depends upon the agreement signed between you and the landlord and the extent of wear and tear that has taken place during your stay.

• How much money do I need to deposit with you before I move in to the property?

  We ask for a month’s rent in advance or in some cases a quarter’s rent in advance before releasing the keys. You will also have to pay for paperwork incurred by us which covers, for example, the preparation of a tenancy agreement and any incidental expenses.

• What checks are conducted before I occupy the property?

  When you are ready to move in, one of our team will meet you at the property and will check the inventory with you, cross checking it with your list. If you are happy, you will be asked to sign a copy of the inventory. If there are any problems, for example, if an electrical appliance is not working, let the member of staff know and the problem will be fixed as soon as possible.
  
  Of course, if any other issues arise after you have signed the documents and occupied the property, feel free to call us at +44 20 7433 6670 and we will be happy to help you.

References

When terms have been agreed between the landlord and the tenant, we will apply for references on the landlord’s behalf. We perform the following checks in the case of an individual and a company.

As a matter of policy a letter from the company’s authorised signatory is also required, confirming the status of the tenant as a bona fide and permanent employee of the company. If there is still any doubt we will organise a credit check through a recognised agency.

In very rare cases, an individual may be unable to provide references. This may happen when an individual is just starting their first job or when moving to the UK for the first time. In this instance, a third party guarantor is required to insure the landlord’s interest and property. The third party guarantor cannot be used as an alternative to the payment of the usual minimum deposit.

We know that this set of FAQs is by no means exhaustive. We have, however, tried to answer most of the frequently asked questions. If you have any further queries, please feel free to give us a call on +44 20 7433 6670 or email us at info@rentals-london.co.uk .