Here at Bricknells Rentals, we’ve created this guide to help you navigate the journey of renting, from your initial search to successfully maintaining your rented home.

Advantages of renting a property:

Renting offers several key advantages over homeownership:

• Flexibility: Renting allows you the freedom to move with minimal commitment, making it ideal for those who value flexibility.
• Less Responsibility: Major maintenance and repairs are generally handled by the landlord, saving both time and expense.

These benefits make renting an appealing option for many. However, to ensure a smooth rental experience, it’s essential to be informed and prepared.

Here’s some pointers to ensure everything runs smoothly before and during your tenancy:

1. Don’t hesitate to ask questions

When viewing a property, take advantage of our agents’ expertise. They are familiar with the local area and can provide insights into:

• Nearby amenities such as shops, schools, and parks.
• Public transport connections.
• Property details like available contract lengths, council tax bands, and more.

Feel free to inquire about anything that impacts your decision to rent. Asking the right questions upfront can prevent surprises later.

2. Understanding your tenancy agreement

In most cases, you’ll be signing an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement (AST), which is the most common form of rental contract in the UK for properties under £100,000 annual rent. This legally binding document typically covers:

• Duration: Usually between 6-12 months.
• Rent: How much you pay and how often.
• Deposit: The security deposit amount and the conditions for its return.

Understanding the details of your agreement ensures that both you and your landlord meet your obligations throughout the tenancy.

3. Preparing for your move

Moving doesn’t have to be stressful if you plan ahead. Here are a few key tasks to handle before moving in:

• Utility Contracts: Compare energy, water, and broadband providers to find the best deal for your new home.
• Meter Readings: Take readings on the day you move in to avoid overpaying for the previous tenant’s usage.
• Post Redirection: Set up postal redirection to ensure you don’t miss important letters.
• Contents Insurance: Protect your belongings with appropriate tenant insurance coverage.

A little preparation goes a long way to making your move smoother.

4. Be a responsible tenant

Maintaining a good relationship with your landlord and neighbours is crucial for a positive renting experience. Follow these tips to be a model tenant:

• Timely Rent Payments: Set up a standing order to ensure rent is paid on time every month.
• Respect the Property: Avoid making alterations or subletting without the landlord’s permission.
• Considerate Behaviour: Be mindful of noise levels and respect your neighbours’ privacy to avoid complaints.

Good tenant conduct can prevent issues and may even help you secure better rental terms in the future.

Protecting your deposit

One of the top concerns for tenants is ensuring the safe return of their deposit at the end of the tenancy. To help with this, we conduct a detailed inventory at the start of your tenancy, documenting the condition of the property and its contents. To safeguard your deposit:

• Take Care of the Property: While wear and tear is normal, any damage beyond that may affect your deposit return.
• Report Issues Early: Notify the landlord promptly of any repairs needed to avoid escalating damage.
• Leave the Property Clean: Ensure the property is in the same condition as when you moved in.