Information for Tenants
Finding a Property
If you have seen one of our properties on Zoopla that you are interested in, or you wish to let us know what your requirements are for a new property in our area, please get in touch, by email, - we’d be happy to help you find your new home. Please be aware that properties get snapped up quickly.
To view the properties we currently have available, please visit Zoopla and email us your enquiry. We will email you a basic questionnaire as soon as possible, then arrange for a mutually convenient viewing.
Viewing a Property
We conduct both virtual and in-person viewings. On viewings, Wayne will meet you at the property to show you around, or you can see the property online viewing with Zoopla.
Fee’s
We do NOT charge fee’s to register, view or sign a Tenancy.
The application process
If you wish to proceed with the Rental, we require information, we may ask for references from employers, current or previous landlords, and a personal referee where necessary.
If you are self-employed, a student or on housing benefit support, we may require references from either a solicitor, accountant and the local Housing Benefit department.
We may be required to conduct a credit reference report. This involves a ‘soft search’ which will highlight CCJs/IVAs or bankruptcies you may have had.
It is common for a Guarantor to be attached to a tenancy. We will seek information from your proposed Guarantor.
Anne will always be on hand to help and update you throughout this process.
This will be withheld if any relevant person (including any guarantor(s) withdraw from the
Deposit/Bond
If your application is successful, a deposit/bond, usually £500.00, or a maximum of 5 weeks rent, will be required at least 48 hours before commencement of the tenancy.
It is held to cover damage, breakages, and any other liabilities under the terms of your tenancy agreement.
Our nominated government approved deposit scheme is Deposit Protection Service. This will safeguard your deposit in the event of a dispute at the end of your tenancy.
Your deposit will be treated in accordance with the Deposit Protection Service regulations, and you will be provided with the appropriate prescribed information, certificate and terms relating to the DPS scheme.
Your deposit will be held with the Deposit Protection Service. At the end of your tenancy, the deposit can be released as soon as agreement is reached, in line with government regulations. For more information, please refer to your Tenancy Agreement or go to https://www.depositprotection.comT), whch significantly lowers the upfront moving cost for a
Guarantor
It is usual for our Landlords to ask for a Guarantor to be attached to a tenancy agreement, a suitable Guarantor must be able financially to pay any outstanding rent for the term of the tenancy.
Rents
We require one month’s rent paid at least 48 hours before commencement of the tenancy. Rents are always quoted per calendar month and payable to our company bank account by standing order a month in advance. If you are renting a single let (a house, apartment, studio etc), you are usually responsible for the council tax, water rates, gas, electricity and telephone costs unless told otherwise
Tenancy
You, the tenant will sign a Fixed Term Assured Shorthold Tenancy, the fix term is usually 6 months but sometimes the Landlord will accept a lesser term. At the end of the fixed term the tenancy becomes a Periodic Tenancy.
Notice to Vacate
On the day the fixed term tenancy expire, you can hand over the keys and vacate. When the tenancy becomes Periodic, you must give one months Notice, on the anniversary day of the tenancy commencement. You are liable to pay all rent to the end of your Notice.
urity device(s).
Early Termination
If you, the tenant, wish to exit your tenancy agreement early, it is at the landlord’s discretion whether they will accept this request. If they do, you will be reponsible for the landlord’s rent due under the tenancy until the start date of the replacement tenancy. These costs will be no more than the maximum amount of rent outstanding on the tenancy.
Please note that for your safety and peace of mind, We ensure the landlord has in place:
Rent Smart Wales
Rent Smart Wales assists those who let or manage rental properties in Wales to comply with their Housing (Wales) Act 2014 obligations and provides advice on renting out safe and healthy homes.
A landlord needs to be registered with Rent Smart Wales. If they don’t use an agent a landlord will need to be licensed.
If a landlord has an agent manage the property, then they only need to be registered and link the managing agent to the property. This is compulsory.
Every rental property in Wales must be registered with Rent Smart Wales.
Gas Safety Certificates
The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 dictate that landlords have a duty to ensure all gas appliances, fittings and flues/chimneys are safe. It is imperative that all gas equipment is maintained by a Gas Safe (previously CORGI) registered engineer.
Landlords must also ensure that an annual check is carried out on each appliance and flue. Following the check, a record should be provided to the existing tenant(s) within 28 days of completion.
New tenant(s) must also be provided with a copy of the gas safety certificate on the start date of their tenancy.
Landlords need to keep copies of gas safety certificates for a minimum of 2 years. However we would advise these are kept hold of throughout the duration of owning the property.
Legally, landlords are not able to move a tenant into a property without having an up to date gas certificate. You will be provided with the property’s gas safety certificate.
Electrical Certificates
In Wales, any record of electrical inspections should be provided to the tenant upon move in.
EPC Certificates
From 1st October 2009 all landlords must provide an Energy Performance certificate to people who want to rent a home from them. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) gives you information about the energy efficiency of the home you want to rent. The Energy Performance Certificate is valid for 10 years. You will be provided with the property’s EPC.
Inspections
We reserve the right to conduct an inspection of the property half way through your tenancy and every year thereafter. We do this to ensure that there are no problems with the property/tenancy.
It also allows us to identify any repairs or maintenance issues which we will relay to the landlord. We will also ensure that all safety requirements are satisfied at the property.
Approved Contractors
As a leading letting agent, we have measures in place to make sure we use high quality contractors for any maintenance or repairs that may arise. Any contractor on our preferred panel are fully vetted and have provided us with the relevant documents such as industry certifications, and insurance where are appropriate.
FAQ’s
Am I allowed Pets?
Each property is different, and this decision lies with the landlord.
Do you accept Universal Credit/Housing Benefits?
Yes we do, you would need to pass all of the referencing checks in the same way that a non housing benefit applicant does. A guarantor would need to be provided in this situation.
Do I need Property Insurance?
You do not need building insurance but it’s your responsibility to arrange your own contents insurance.
Who is responsible for gardens/outside space?
Under your tenancy agreement, you as the tenant are responsible for the upkeep of the garden/outdoor space that comes with the property.
What happens if I fall behind with my rent?
If you are aware that you will not be able to pay your rent, you will need to inform us straight away, by email. We will work with you to put a payment plan in place until you bring your rent up to date. You must keep continued communication so we can help you resolve the situation. Please be aware that if you fall too far behind with your rent, the Landlord has the right to issue a section 21 notice or section 8 notice for repossession of the property.
Will my rent increase at any point?
If your Tenancy Agreement includes a rent review clause, the Landlord has the right to issue a Section 13 notice, which gives at least 1 month’s notice of any rental increase. Any increase is the landlord’s discretion but increases will be in line with the market level, and is capped at a maximum of 5%.
If you are on housing benefits or universal credit, you should notify the council or your online universal credit account of the change.
How do I report any maintenance issues with my property?
You will need to call our office number on 01685 870818 and leave a message or email [email protected]
In the case of an emergency (a flood or no water or electricity/gas) you can still call the office number out of working hours, we will assist you with the issue.
Who is responsible for contacting the utility companies when I move in?
We will notify the utilities companies on behalf of both you and the landlord. You will need to contact the utilities company them to arrange the setting up of your payment method.
Can I decorate the property?
Before making any changes to the property, you need permission from the landlord. If we’re fully managing your property on behalf of the landlord, you should submit, by email, to us your written request, outlining the changes you would like to make.
We will seek permission from the Landlord and let you know the outcome.
What happens to the personal information I supply to you?
Any personal information you supply to us will be treated confidentially and held in compliance with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).
On signing the Application Form you authorise us to share this information with the landlord in order that we can gain approval for the tenancy.
What do I need to pay before I/we move into the property?
The first month's rent, plus your deposit/bond at least 48 hours before your move in date.
How do I pay?
Bank transfer is our only payment method available, we will provide you with our bank details.
We are unable to accept both Visa Debit and Credit Cards, either over the telephone or at the office.
Please note, a personal cheque or cash is not acceptable on check-in day.
What am I responsible for as a tenant?
In a Fully Managed property, W J Holder & Co/Holder Property Services acts as the agent of the landlord and will aim to resolve any maintenance issues of which you notify us.
However, you, as tenant, are still reasonably expected to:
Finding a Property
If you have seen one of our properties on Zoopla that you are interested in, or you wish to let us know what your requirements are for a new property in our area, please get in touch, by email, - we’d be happy to help you find your new home. Please be aware that properties get snapped up quickly.
To view the properties we currently have available, please visit Zoopla and email us your enquiry. We will email you a basic questionnaire as soon as possible, then arrange for a mutually convenient viewing.
Viewing a Property
We conduct both virtual and in-person viewings. On viewings, Wayne will meet you at the property to show you around, or you can see the property online viewing with Zoopla.
Fee’s
We do NOT charge fee’s to register, view or sign a Tenancy.
The application process
If you wish to proceed with the Rental, we require information, we may ask for references from employers, current or previous landlords, and a personal referee where necessary.
If you are self-employed, a student or on housing benefit support, we may require references from either a solicitor, accountant and the local Housing Benefit department.
We may be required to conduct a credit reference report. This involves a ‘soft search’ which will highlight CCJs/IVAs or bankruptcies you may have had.
It is common for a Guarantor to be attached to a tenancy. We will seek information from your proposed Guarantor.
Anne will always be on hand to help and update you throughout this process.
This will be withheld if any relevant person (including any guarantor(s) withdraw from the
Deposit/Bond
If your application is successful, a deposit/bond, usually £500.00, or a maximum of 5 weeks rent, will be required at least 48 hours before commencement of the tenancy.
It is held to cover damage, breakages, and any other liabilities under the terms of your tenancy agreement.
Our nominated government approved deposit scheme is Deposit Protection Service. This will safeguard your deposit in the event of a dispute at the end of your tenancy.
Your deposit will be treated in accordance with the Deposit Protection Service regulations, and you will be provided with the appropriate prescribed information, certificate and terms relating to the DPS scheme.
Your deposit will be held with the Deposit Protection Service. At the end of your tenancy, the deposit can be released as soon as agreement is reached, in line with government regulations. For more information, please refer to your Tenancy Agreement or go to https://www.depositprotection.comT), whch significantly lowers the upfront moving cost for a
Guarantor
It is usual for our Landlords to ask for a Guarantor to be attached to a tenancy agreement, a suitable Guarantor must be able financially to pay any outstanding rent for the term of the tenancy.
Rents
We require one month’s rent paid at least 48 hours before commencement of the tenancy. Rents are always quoted per calendar month and payable to our company bank account by standing order a month in advance. If you are renting a single let (a house, apartment, studio etc), you are usually responsible for the council tax, water rates, gas, electricity and telephone costs unless told otherwise
Tenancy
You, the tenant will sign a Fixed Term Assured Shorthold Tenancy, the fix term is usually 6 months but sometimes the Landlord will accept a lesser term. At the end of the fixed term the tenancy becomes a Periodic Tenancy.
Notice to Vacate
On the day the fixed term tenancy expire, you can hand over the keys and vacate. When the tenancy becomes Periodic, you must give one months Notice, on the anniversary day of the tenancy commencement. You are liable to pay all rent to the end of your Notice.
urity device(s).
Early Termination
If you, the tenant, wish to exit your tenancy agreement early, it is at the landlord’s discretion whether they will accept this request. If they do, you will be reponsible for the landlord’s rent due under the tenancy until the start date of the replacement tenancy. These costs will be no more than the maximum amount of rent outstanding on the tenancy.
Please note that for your safety and peace of mind, We ensure the landlord has in place:
Rent Smart Wales
Rent Smart Wales assists those who let or manage rental properties in Wales to comply with their Housing (Wales) Act 2014 obligations and provides advice on renting out safe and healthy homes.
A landlord needs to be registered with Rent Smart Wales. If they don’t use an agent a landlord will need to be licensed.
If a landlord has an agent manage the property, then they only need to be registered and link the managing agent to the property. This is compulsory.
Every rental property in Wales must be registered with Rent Smart Wales.
Gas Safety Certificates
The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 dictate that landlords have a duty to ensure all gas appliances, fittings and flues/chimneys are safe. It is imperative that all gas equipment is maintained by a Gas Safe (previously CORGI) registered engineer.
Landlords must also ensure that an annual check is carried out on each appliance and flue. Following the check, a record should be provided to the existing tenant(s) within 28 days of completion.
New tenant(s) must also be provided with a copy of the gas safety certificate on the start date of their tenancy.
Landlords need to keep copies of gas safety certificates for a minimum of 2 years. However we would advise these are kept hold of throughout the duration of owning the property.
Legally, landlords are not able to move a tenant into a property without having an up to date gas certificate. You will be provided with the property’s gas safety certificate.
Electrical Certificates
In Wales, any record of electrical inspections should be provided to the tenant upon move in.
EPC Certificates
From 1st October 2009 all landlords must provide an Energy Performance certificate to people who want to rent a home from them. An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) gives you information about the energy efficiency of the home you want to rent. The Energy Performance Certificate is valid for 10 years. You will be provided with the property’s EPC.
Inspections
We reserve the right to conduct an inspection of the property half way through your tenancy and every year thereafter. We do this to ensure that there are no problems with the property/tenancy.
It also allows us to identify any repairs or maintenance issues which we will relay to the landlord. We will also ensure that all safety requirements are satisfied at the property.
Approved Contractors
As a leading letting agent, we have measures in place to make sure we use high quality contractors for any maintenance or repairs that may arise. Any contractor on our preferred panel are fully vetted and have provided us with the relevant documents such as industry certifications, and insurance where are appropriate.
FAQ’s
Am I allowed Pets?
Each property is different, and this decision lies with the landlord.
Do you accept Universal Credit/Housing Benefits?
Yes we do, you would need to pass all of the referencing checks in the same way that a non housing benefit applicant does. A guarantor would need to be provided in this situation.
Do I need Property Insurance?
You do not need building insurance but it’s your responsibility to arrange your own contents insurance.
Who is responsible for gardens/outside space?
Under your tenancy agreement, you as the tenant are responsible for the upkeep of the garden/outdoor space that comes with the property.
What happens if I fall behind with my rent?
If you are aware that you will not be able to pay your rent, you will need to inform us straight away, by email. We will work with you to put a payment plan in place until you bring your rent up to date. You must keep continued communication so we can help you resolve the situation. Please be aware that if you fall too far behind with your rent, the Landlord has the right to issue a section 21 notice or section 8 notice for repossession of the property.
Will my rent increase at any point?
If your Tenancy Agreement includes a rent review clause, the Landlord has the right to issue a Section 13 notice, which gives at least 1 month’s notice of any rental increase. Any increase is the landlord’s discretion but increases will be in line with the market level, and is capped at a maximum of 5%.
If you are on housing benefits or universal credit, you should notify the council or your online universal credit account of the change.
How do I report any maintenance issues with my property?
You will need to call our office number on 01685 870818 and leave a message or email [email protected]
In the case of an emergency (a flood or no water or electricity/gas) you can still call the office number out of working hours, we will assist you with the issue.
Who is responsible for contacting the utility companies when I move in?
We will notify the utilities companies on behalf of both you and the landlord. You will need to contact the utilities company them to arrange the setting up of your payment method.
Can I decorate the property?
Before making any changes to the property, you need permission from the landlord. If we’re fully managing your property on behalf of the landlord, you should submit, by email, to us your written request, outlining the changes you would like to make.
We will seek permission from the Landlord and let you know the outcome.
What happens to the personal information I supply to you?
Any personal information you supply to us will be treated confidentially and held in compliance with General Data Protection Regulations (GDPR).
On signing the Application Form you authorise us to share this information with the landlord in order that we can gain approval for the tenancy.
What do I need to pay before I/we move into the property?
The first month's rent, plus your deposit/bond at least 48 hours before your move in date.
How do I pay?
Bank transfer is our only payment method available, we will provide you with our bank details.
We are unable to accept both Visa Debit and Credit Cards, either over the telephone or at the office.
Please note, a personal cheque or cash is not acceptable on check-in day.
What am I responsible for as a tenant?
In a Fully Managed property, W J Holder & Co/Holder Property Services acts as the agent of the landlord and will aim to resolve any maintenance issues of which you notify us.
However, you, as tenant, are still reasonably expected to:
- Keeping all areas of the property clean throughout the tenancy.
- Correctly dispose of all rubbish produced at the property
- Window cleaning at the property
- Replacing of all lightbulbs, including bulbs in appliances at the property.
- General household and gardening maintenance, such as the cutting of grass and keeping the property and its outdoor space neat and presentable (please see your Tenancy Agreement for clarification)
- Report to us all water leaks, however minor
- Forward to us any post that may arrive for the landlord or former tenant(s)
- Safeguard all keys issued. If you are locked out, you may be able to collect a spare set from us. Outside office hours, you will be responsible for arranging and paying for a visit from a locksmith. Further details are outlined in your Tenancy Agreement.
