Extra's to consider when renting.

[OnTheLookOut]

I rented a flat where an old lady lived below and asked if we could be as quiet as possible after 9pm, as that's when she went to bed. So it's not only noisy neighbours to look out for it's the extremely quiet ones too!

[mgrds]

Really really important in today's climate. Try to determine if you Landlord is solvent!

Though there are some greedy money grabbing Landlords - actually a lot of them have found property values falling, rents decreasing, and admin costs rising (eg it costs around £800 just for paperwork to get a licence for house in multiple occupation - before you even pay for inspections). Many good landlords who don't cut corners have found the books are not balancing and some have faced insolvency and repossession. I the present climate mortgage lenders a quick to come down on any risky client. And of course that may mean you lose you home. or may mean the Landlord can't pay for necessary repairs
Make sure your Landlord has good business sense and adequate assets

[canton]

Fantastic List! could not have done it better myself!

[kguna74]

Many thanks for the tips KingJamesUK. I used to live in a 1 bed flat in Maplin Park, Langley, Slough for 575 pcm. After hearing your tips, then I guess that we were really lucky as that was probably one of the best ones to live and rent. Minimal noise, mostly working people, nicely landscaped and loads of parking, it was a very good place. I can't imagine how, as a shift worker, returning from work after a night shift and not able to sleep due to constant noise.

[MW234]

There are times when nosy neighbours are a bonus - like when someone drives into your car in the parking lot!

[Select Estate Agents]

Very helpful post for those new to renting

[pondy1955]

Hello, I hope I haven't missed this in your comprehensive information but here goes anyway!

A friend is just about to move into an unfurnished flat which has an old washing machine, 'fridge and electric cooker supplied. She has read a draft of the tenancy agreement which states the tenant is responsible for the repair or replacement of any of these appliances should the need arise. Surely, if they form part of the fixtures and fittings this should be the responsibility of the Landlord?

Thank you for any help you can give.

[reserve1960]

Hi Guys, Good Long read, skim read was their any mention of ensuring any/all defects were noted correctly on the inventory when you move, were photo's taken, were meter readings taken and signed against by both parties.

[jodieB]

I definately agree with the tenancy deposit scheme and also making sure that you do your own inventory before and after to make sure that they cant charge you for anything that isnt your fault either pen and paper descriptions of every furnishing, scratches, bumps, rips and tears or video everything so you have proof if they ever try to dispute anything.

[Dan S]

This is a fantastic thread. First Time Buyers need to think long and hard about all this when budgeting for saving for a mortgage deposit.