Cottams Property Management

FINDING A PROPERTY

Our staff are specially trained and equipped to assist tenants to find properties to rent that will meet their needs. We maintain a database of properties available to rent and of prospective tenants and their requirements. As properties become available, our first action is to contact waiting tenants on the database, whose requirements match the property. Typically, properties to rent become available about two months before occupancy date, so where possible it is advisable to start looking early.


VIEWINGS

Having identified a potentially suitable property, we will arrange a viewing. This will be at a time to suit you, and could be at evenings or week-ends, subject of course to the landlords permission. All viewings will be accompanied by a member of staff, who will be able to provide immediate advice and answer any questions you may have.


OFFER / APPLICATION

Having decided on a property, you will need to complete a written application form. At this time any details or requirements can be provisionally agreed, such as occupancy date, duration of the letting, etc.

On application, a Holding Fee of £100 will be required. Assuming the rental proceeds, this will be deducted from the fees due before occupation.

The holding fee will not be refunded if the application falls through due to bad references/credit, false declaration on application or reference forms, or if you decide not to proceed for any reason.

If the property is withdrawn from rental you will receive the full holding deposit back.

REFERENCES

We will take references on behalf of the Landlord. These will include references from your employer and former landlords, and may include viewing your bank statements. In addition a credit check will be undertaken.

A Guarantor will be required for some tenancies, and will also be thoroughly referenced including credit checks.

RENT

Rents are normally quoted on a calendar month basis. In addition, the tenant will be responsible for Council Tax, Water Rates, Gas, Electricity and Telephone costs (where applicable).

Rents are payable by standing order (unless alternative arrangements are agreed in advance) to Cottams bank account monthly in advance, with the first month's rent due before taking occupation of the premises.

Should any rent be outstanding, a daily late fee of £10 per day will be charged.


DEPOSIT

A deposit (or 'bond') is required prior to occupation of the premises. This is normally equal to one and a half’s month's rent, but may be more. Check with our representative for the deposit required on each specific property. Your deposit will be held by the Deposit Protection Scheme for the duration of your tenancy.

The deposit is held to cover any breakages, damage, or other tenant liabilities. A comprehensive inventory will be prepared and agreed before the tenancy commences, which will serve as evidence should there be any disputes over condition at the end of the tenancy.

Please note that the deposit cannot be used by the Tenant to cover rent.


ADMINISTRATION / AGENCY FEES

A fee of £150 (per person) is due prior to the start of the tenancy to cover the Tenant's share of administration costs, including preparation of the tenancy agreement and any legal notices, referencing and credits checks, inventory preparation, check-in and check-out.