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Dealing with lettings agents and landlords
| Tenancy rights and the terminology used varies between the different countries in the UK. For more information on all aspects of renting in the four countries visit Shelter's website via the related link. |
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- Agents normally charge administration and reference-checking fees which are sometimes excessive. Always ask about fees before signing anything or handing over any money. Agents can only charge fees once you accept the accommodation – by law you can’t be charged registration or viewing fees.
- If you’re not sure about a property don’t pay a holding deposit as you’ll lose the money if you change your mind. Holding deposits are off-set against agency administration charges or your first month’s rent. If the landlord changes their mind about renting the property you’re entitled to get the full holding deposit back.
- If you’re having problems paying your rent contact your landlord or agency – some charge if you pay late but may agree not to if you speak to them first.
- Most landlords and agents require at least a month’s rent to be held as a deposit until you move out of the property. To ensure your full deposit is returned at the end of the tenancy, ask for an inventory when you move in and make a note of any existing damage to the property e.g. stains on walls / carpets (take photos if necessary) or missing items.
- From 1 April 2007 there is a Tenancy Deposit Protection scheme for assured shorthold tenancies in England and Wales. See the related website link for full information.
- Make sure that you sign an assured tenancy agreement unless you have a resident landlord, in which case you have fewer rights regarding eviction and must sign an excluded tenancy.
- Check if your university offers advice and listings for private rented accommodation via the related links.
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