You should be given the opportunity to read and understand the tenancy agreement before signing it. This will take place on or before the commencement date of the tenancy at a prearranged time. On signing the tenancy agreement, the Landlord or agent will normally collect from you the first month's rental in advance plus a security deposit / bond.

This initial payment is usually made either by BUILDING SOCIETY CHEQUE BANKERS DRAFT, OR BY CASH, which have to be cleared funds. (Personal cheques are usually not accepted, as they are not considered as cleared funds).

The deposit / bond taken, will be held against possible breakage's or damage caused by you during the tenancy and for any other breaches of your tenancy terms and condition, such as unpaid rent.

The deposit / bond will only be returned to you, subject to everything being left in a satisfactory condition at the property at the end of the tenancy.

The Landlord or agent will set up with you how to pay your future rent. This may be by cheque, cash, standing order or direct debit. If the rental is paid monthly, the rent due date will be the same date of the tenancy commencement date for each month, although some agents may change the due date i.e. to the 1st of each month, for accounting purposes and adjust portions of rent accordingly.

Whatever type of accommodation you are moving into, it is important that you see the inventory for the property by the day of occupation. It will become your responsibility to make sure it is accurate before signing it and to note any alterations regarding discrepancies and omissions from it.

The inventory is a legal document and puts the responsibility on to you as the tenant to look after the items listed on it. It should list all the items of the property left by the Landlord for your use during the tenancy, such as furniture, furnishings and overall cleanliness and condition of the property when you moved in.

A copy of the inventory should be provided for you to keep in a safe place. Should you damage, break or not clean the property when you move out at the end of the tenancy, the Landlord can claim compensation from your deposit / bond to have it put right. (Reasonable fair wear and tear can be taken into consideration).

For more information please email us at: tenantcare@aristonproperty.co.uk