Advice for Tenants
How may I view properties?
Please telephone, fax or e.mail our company who will be pleased to arrange convenient appointments at suitable properties. Viewings will be accompanied by a representative from Robertson Property Management unless you are advised to the contrary. Our offices are open between 9.00 a.m. - 5.30 p.m. Monday through Friday. All of the rental figures are per calendar month, utility bills and council tax are not included unless specifically stated. Property profiles are available with colour photographs for any accommodation of particular interest via the property search pages on this site.
What Are My Legal Liabilities As A Tenant?
The law was up-dated with effect from 15 January 1989, and under the Housing Act 1988 as amended by the Housing Act 1996 you will be granted an Assured Shorthold Tenancy. The law requires that you must move out of the property at the end of the agreed term if the Landlord requires you to. Before you are allowed to take up occupation you will be required to sign a detailed Tenancy Agreement which records exactly the period of your tenancy, the agreed rent, your obligations and those of the Landlord and the Managing Agents.
What Are My Responsibilities For The Property?
You will be expected to treat the property as if it were your own home - to treat the furnishings and decorations carefully and undertake routine day-to-day maintenance. You will be required to make your own arrangements for the supply of services from, for example, British Telecom, Gas, Electricity and Water Boards and fuel suppliers and will be liable to them direct for their bills. You are responsible for payment of Council Tax.
What Does the Landlord Do?
The landlord is responsible for maintaining the property and any equipment in it (such as washing machines or fridges) to the same standard as it is in when you take up your tenancy.
What About the Garden?
If applicable, you will be expected to keep the garden in at least as tidy condition as when you first moved in. In some cases an agreement will be made between you and the landlord regarding the cost of a gardener.
And Insurance?
The landlord will insure the building(s) and their own contents - but their insurers will not cover you for any damage you may do to the premises, fixtures, fittings and furnishings. As a condition of the tenancy agreement you are required to have independent insurance for your own possessions.
What do I have to pay before I move in?
In most cases, a security deposit equal to one month's rent will be required plus the first month's rent in advance. The security deposit will be returned to you at the end of the tenancy minus the cost of repairs, unpaid bills, cleaning etc, as stated in the lease agreement.
What Does The Inventory Involve?
It is a record of each item of furniture, furnishings and equipment room by room. A note is made of any damage or stain and every room is photographed to support the record. You will be asked to sign a copy of the Inventory as a correct record and a copy is retained by you.
How Do I Pay The Rent?
By Standing Order from your bank on a monthly in advance basis.
Can I Keep Pets?
This is entirely at the landlords discretion and varies from property to property.
Can The Landlord Enter The House At Any Time?
No - only in the case of emergency. Otherwise a prior arrangement would be made, giving at least 48 hours notice. As the Managing Agents we have a duty to visit all our properties at regular intervals to check that they are being well cared for.
