I know there are threads on here slating Blundells, but we found the perfect property to rent with them recently after our purchase (with another agent) fell through.

We decided to rent until we find an appropriate property again to buy. Still in the area we were going to buy, so we are happy.

Any way, we have never rented before, so don't know what to expect and when. For info, blundells are NOT managing the property, just advertising it etc.

We did the application, and Blundells have called me a few days later to say we were successful and when can we move in (a date next month when it's available).

On the day we take over the house, we need to go and pay the 1st months rent, bond, and fee of about £80 (over the top but we can live with that), and collect the keys. This is fine and what I expected.

However, this is also the day we sign the tennancy agreement. Should I ask/expect to see/sign the agreement before then to make sure I am happy with it, rather than having to read it in their office and then cause delays if there are problems?

Also, should they deal with, or should we be put in contact with the landlord regarding getting a check of the property done after the current tennants move out to check for damage etc.

We have spoken to the existing tenants and they say the landlord is really good, but they did show us some minor damage that needs repairing (to come from their deposit they say), and I want to make sure it's highlighted and not left for us to get the blame for. Also things like meter readings etc.

Should I call and ask to be present for the checks etc. after the tenant moves out and for a copy of the agreement to read in advance of signing?

What's the normal procedure?

Thanks

Originally posted by keithmdw
I know there are threads on here slating Blundells, but we found the perfect property to rent with them recently after our purchase (with another agent) fell through.

We decided to rent until we find an appropriate property again to buy. Still in the area we were going to buy, so we are happy.

Any way, we have never rented before, so don't know what to expect and when. For info, blundells are NOT managing the property, just advertising it etc.

We did the application, and Blundells have called me a few days later to say we were successful and when can we move in (a date next month when it's available).

On the day we take over the house, we need to go and pay the 1st months rent, bond, and fee of about £80 (over the top but we can live with that), and collect the keys. This is fine and what I expected.

However, this is also the day we sign the tennancy agreement. Should I ask/expect to see/sign the agreement before then to make sure I am happy with it, rather than having to read it in their office and then cause delays if there are problems?

Also, should they deal with, or should we be put in contact with the landlord regarding getting a check of the property done after the current tennants move out to check for damage etc.

We have spoken to the existing tenants and they say the landlord is really good, but they did show us some minor damage that needs repairing (to come from their deposit they say), and I want to make sure it's highlighted and not left for us to get the blame for. Also things like meter readings etc.

Should I call and ask to be present for the checks etc. after the tenant moves out and for a copy of the agreement to read in advance of signing?

What's the normal procedure?

Thanks

I dont think you can be present while checks are done after the last lot leave.

You can request to do an inventory with the landlord when you move in though which is useful as long as you have a decent landlord.

Normally (and we have moved a few times, always in rented), you should get an inventory with the furniture, floors, carpets etc., describing everything for current condition, including damage. When you move in, you go around and check that descriptions are true. Also, the inventory usually has meter readings. Then you sign one copy and return it, keeping the other copy. When you move out, the landlord should go around with you checking again everything. Normally, they don't charge for minor wear, however at one place they deducted £50 for washing the carpets.

If I were you I'd probably take photos of the whole place - particularly anything that isn't as clean as you'd like, or is damaged, and post them to yourselves.

When they arrive, don't open them, but if there is a problem when you come to move out, you'll have evidence of the condition the place was in :thumbsup:

As a landlord I always give my prospective tenants a minimum of 24 hrs to read an digest the tenancy agreement. I prefer that they are happy and understand the contract fully rather tahn face problems at a later date if they say they didn't understand something.

Landlords should provide inventories, after all if they can't prove what condition a property was in when a tenant began occupying it how can they deduct any monies from a deposit for repairs etc? Fair wear and tear is to be expected and you cannot be penalised for it.

What is the £80 charge for?

The £80 is a fee estate agents always charge, and everytime the law changes to prevent them from charging an 'admin fee' or 'contract fee' they change the name and charge it anyway :mad:

Robbin gits :rant:

Originally posted by Strix
The £80 is a fee estate agents always charge, and everytime the law changes to prevent them from charging an 'admin fee' or 'contract fee' they change the name and charge it anyway :mad:

Robbin gits :rant:

Robbin' gits is right!! Surely they should be charging the owner of the property for the tenancy agreement as they are acting on their behalf. I manage my own properties and don't pass on cost like this, it certainly doesn't cost £80 for a tenancy agreement, I credit & reference check my tenants and absorb this cost also.

We thought that this should have been a charge the lalndlord absorbed, but I suspect they will charge him also.

I think it's' estate agents trying to screw as much as they posibly can from all parties concerned.

If you want a property they are advertising though you don't have much choice but to pay unfortunately.