FAQs - Properties to Let in Essex | Property to Rent Essex | Brentwood, Chelmsford Properties to Let - Domans Residential
Frequently Asked QuestionsFrequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Unfurnished, Part Furnished, Furnished and Fully Furnished?

The table below lists the items that a landlord would normally supply. Please note however that this is only a guide and that some properties may vary from the description given.

 

Unfurnished Part Furnished Furnished Fully Furnished

- Curtain poles or curtains
- Flooring ie carpets etc
- White Goods ie washing machine etc

As with Unfurnished plus

- Some items of furniture. This could be just one item such as a table and chairs or most furniture but not all. Please ask for specific details on the property.

As with Unfurnished plus

- Beds
- Sofa/Chairs
- Table & Chairs
- Wardrobes

It is sometimes possible to have further items ie tv units and bedside cabinets. Please ask for specific details on the property.

As with Furnished plus

- All items of furniture
- Crockery & Cutlery
- Cooking Equipment

A Fully Furnished property should only require you to bring a suitcase and personal possessions, however, it is unlikely that a landlord will supply expensive electric equipment such as TV & Stereo.

Landlord FAQ'S

1. What type of tenancy agreement is used and how binding is it?
2. What is a 'Break Clause'?
3. Do I need insurance?
4. What if my tenant stops paying the rent?
5. I am moving overseas for more than 6 months, what do I need to do about tax?

Tenant FAQ's

1. How much money will I need to move into a property?
2. What type of tenancy agreement is used and how binding is it?
3. What is a 'Break Clause'?
4. How do I pay my rent?
5. Do I need insurance?
6. Who should I contact if any issues arise with the property?
7. When will I get my deposit back?

Landlords

1. What type of tenancy agreement is used and how binding is it?

In most cases an 'Assured Shorthold Tenancy' agreement written by ARLA (Association of Residential Lettings Agents) is used, which is protected by The Housing Act 1988. The tenancy agreement governs all rent payments and is a legal and binding document. Your tenant is committed to paying rent until the end of the agreed term.

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2. What is a 'Break Clause'?

A Break Clause is used when a landlord and tenant have an agreement that allows either one of them to terminate the tenancy earlier than the end of the original term. A break clause can usually only be implemented after a fixed date ie during the last 6 months of the tenancy and two months written notice is normally required by either party which confirms their request to terminate the tenancy early.

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3. Do I need insurance?

Yes! It is important that you insure your possessions at the property and continue with your buildings insurance. It is also important that you inform your insurance company that your property is tenanted.

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4. What if my tenant stops paying the rent?

At Domans Residential we have an established procedure for dealing with this situation. We can offer a specially negotiated 'Rent Protection & Legal Fees Insurance' which will immediately cover your rental. The insurance company will organise any necessary legal proceedings against your tenant should they be required, however most cases can be settled amicably.

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5. I am moving overseas for more than 6 months, what do I need to do about tax?

If you are moving out of the country and plan to be away for more than 6 months, it is important that you inform the Inland Revenue of your situation. You will be required to complete an Overseas Tax Form NRL1 which can be obtained from www.hmrc.gov.uk/cnr/nr_landlords.htm. This form will authorise us as your agents to release the full amount of tax to you as long as your taxes are in order.

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Tenants

1. How much money will I need to move into a property?

On completion day you will be required to pay your first months rent and your deposit money (normally 6 weeks rent) in the form of cleared funds ie Bankers draft, cash, building society cheque or bank transfer. Personal cheques can only be accepted if they are presented 7 days in advance of your completion day to allow time for clearance.

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2. What type of tenancy agreement is used and how binding is it?

In most cases an 'Assured Shorthold Tenancy' agreement written by ARLA (Association of Residential Lettings Agents) is used, which is protected by The Housing Act 1988. The tenancy agreement governs all rent payments and is a legal and binding document. As a tenant you are committed to paying rent until the end of the agreed term and could face legal action if you break the terms of the agreement. If your circumstances change for any reason during your tenancy, it is important that you inform Domans Residential as soon as possible.

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3. What is a 'Break Clause'?

A Break Clause is used when a landlord and tenant have an agreement that allows either one of them to terminate the tenancy earlier than the end of the original term. A break clause can usually only be implemented after a fixed date ie during the last 6 months of the tenancy and two months written notice is normally required by either party which confirms their request to terminate the tenancy early.

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4. How do I pay my rent?

Rent is paid monthly by standing order from your bank account. The standing order is set up to be taken from your account 3 days before the rent is due to allow for processing.

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5. Do I need insurance?

Yes! Your contents need to be insured as your landlords insurance will cover the items that belong to the property and the buildings insurance but none of your personal possessions. Domans Residential will be happy to provide details on suitable cover.

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6. Who should I contact if any issues arise with the property?

You will be advised of all contact numbers on completion day and they will also be detailed on your tenancy agreement. If the property is managed by Domans Residential you will be required to call us and we will then arrange for any necessary work to be carried out on behalf of the landlord.

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7. When will I get my deposit back?

Your deposit will be returned at the end of the tenancy. However, this is subject to the property being handed back in a suitable condition and in line with the inventory that you were given at the start of the tenancy although general wear and tear will be taken into account. It is therefore very important that you read through the inventory very carefully and make any necessary amendments before signing, as this will be the document that determines the condition of the property when you moved in. Domans Residential strictly adhere to ARLA rulings and we will advise your landlord on the refund of your deposit. It is advised that you take out contents insurance that also has cover for your deposit - please ask for further information.

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