Guide to renting

Guide to Renting a Property

1. Determine Your Budget: Before you start searching for a property to rent, it's important to determine your budget. This will help you to narrow down your search and avoid wasting time viewing properties that are outside of your price range.
2. Decide on the Location: Consider the location you would like to rent in. This will depend on your personal preferences, such as proximity to work, transport links, amenities, and the type of neighbourhood you prefer.
3. Search for Properties: You will find Trace Property listings on www.trace-property.co.uk and www.onthemarket.com and be sure to keep an eye on the Trace Property Facebook page.
4. View Properties: Once you have found a property that you are interested in, arrange a viewing with Trace Property. This is your chance to see the property in person and ask any questions you may have.
5. Complete an Application Form: You will be provided with an application form to complete, it’s a good idea to bring this with you to the viewing, so that you are ready to apply if you wish.
6. Be Reference Ready: Most landlords will require reference checks, so if you are accepted for a property (subject to references), be prepared with wage slips, bank statements and current landlords details. Or even better, pre-qualify yourself, using Canopy’s free Tenant RENTPASSPORT service. This gives landlords a great insight as to your eligibility for the property and gives you a good head start. Link 
7. Understand the Tenancy Agreement: Before signing a tenancy agreement, it's important to read through it carefully to ensure that you understand the terms and conditions of the tenancy. This should include details such as the rental price, length of the tenancy, and any restrictions on the use of the property.
8. Paying Rent and Deposits: You will need to pay a deposit and the first month's rent in advance. The deposit is usually equivalent to one months rent and is held in a government-backed scheme to protect both you and the landlord.
9. Inventory and Check-In: Depending on the package your landlord chose, you will be issued with a Inventory and Condition of Property Report for you to check and sign. It's also important to take your own photographs and keep detailed records in case there are any disputes later on.
10. Managing the Tenancy: Throughout the tenancy, you will be responsible for paying rent on time and keeping the property in a good state of repair. If any repairs or maintenance are needed, you should report them to the landlord or if it’s a managed property, to Trace Property as soon as possible.

By following these steps, you can successfully rent a property in the UK and ensure a smooth tenancy. Be sure to read all documentation carefully and ask questions if you are unsure about anything.