Finding a property

There are many ways to find suitable properties to rent.

Please note it is illegal for letting agents to charge you money just to register with them for property details or just to view a property. There will be costs involved after you decide on a property but these costs should be displayed on any property adverts. Please make sure you ask letting agents about additional costs before parting with any money. Some of the costs involved with securing a property may be non refundable.

You can also start your own search by phoning local agents in the area and registering you details or alternatively you could start your search by looking on the following websites as below:

Letting agents

The main differences between landlord and lettings agents is that letting agents do not own the properties that they rent out. They act on behalf of a landlord and they are paid to find tenants for properties. This could involve just finding a suitable tenant, collecting rent or managing maintenance for the landlord at the property. Once you decide on a property you need to be clear how involved the landlord will be, even if the letting agent manages the property you have a right to know who your landlord will be even if you do not have much direct contact with them.

The best way to choose a letting agent is to make sure that they are a member of a professional body such as:

• National Approved Lettings Scheme (NALS)
• Association of Residential Letting Agents (ARLA)
• UK Association of Letting Agents (UKALA)
• National Association of Estate Agents (NAEA)

Each of these organisations lists their members on their websites. It is a legal requirement that every letting agent is a member of one of these professional bodies.

Tips for viewing

The Government website has some useful information in terms of a checklist which can be used when renting in the UK. Please see these links:

The questions below can be used as guidelines to make sure that all of the relevant questions are asked when you attend viewings. This should mean that you have all of the relevant information available to make sure you can make an informed decision.

1. Can you afford the rent?

Including advance deposits and advance rent, monthly bills and council tax.

2. How long is the tenancy for?

Ask if there is a break clause and if there are any costs to renew your contract.

3. Check the exterior or the property

Look for damp patches or any obvious signs of disrepair. If you find anything, check if they will be repaired before you move in.

4. Inspect inside of the property

Is there any damp and condensation or evidence of pests inside the property.

5. Inspect the communal area

Check the garden, entrance hall and stairwell and enquire who is responsible for these areas. Ask if there are any additional service charges for the maintennce of these areas.

6. Focus on heating

Check how energy efficient the property is (all properties should have an energy performance certificate EPC), also check the heating and ask for an estimated monthly bill if possible.

7. Furniture and fixtures

Ask what is included within the agreement, never presume furniture will be staying. Check inventories and that all furniture is in good condition.

8. Check appliances and safety certificates are in place

Make sure all portable appliances are checked every year ensuring the landlord has an electrical safety certificate. Also check if the property has fire alarms, or heat sensors and if they are hard wired or battery operated. Check who is responsible for the upkeep of all appliances.

9. Ask about gas safety

All properties must have a gas safety certificate by law, this will be renewed every 12 months.

To assist with your search, you may wish to use our viewing helpsheet

Quick Links

Local letting agents

Tips for viewing

Viewing Helpsheet