Tenants FAQ
Can you really save me time when I'm looking to rent?
We always have an excellent selection of properties to let throughout Darlington and the surrounding areas which are displayed on our ever changing website and on 'Rightmove'and 'Zoopla' and can generally organise a viewing within 24 hours. There is no need to pace up and down the high street looking for properties.
How long will the process take?
After you have paid the necessary fees and suitable references obtained, we can usually move you into a vacant property within a couple of days.
How much money will I need to pay?
You will need the administration fee of £150 plus VAT, plus the bond of one month's rent up front. On the day you move in, you will need to pay one month's rent up front.
What is the referencing process?
We use the services of a professional referencing company who will check your employment details, credit history, previous addresses and any tenancy history. This is usually completed within 48 hours.
When might I need a Guarantor?
If you have had any financial problems in the past, or are likely to have difficulties paying the whole rent. Your Guarantor must be in full time employment and have an excellent credit history. Please make them aware that they will become responsible for the rent and all other obligations under the tenancy agreement should there be any problems with yourself. This committment remains in place for the life of your tenancy. All propsective tenants on Local Housing Allowance will need a Guarantor.
What happens with my deposit?
Your deposit is held in a dedicated client account under the strict regulations laid down by NALS and the latest legislation. In addition, it is protected with The Dispute Service under the Tenancy Deposit Scheme which has an independent arbitration scheme, should there be any issues with your bond at the end of the tenancy. In general, if your rent is up to date and the property in good condition when you leave, the full bond will be returned.
How is my rent paid
Standing order direct from you bank is the quickest and most straightforward, due on the same date that you moved in, each month and always in advance. We can accept cash in person or card payments over the phone. We can also accept on-line payments for rent.
What about council tax and other bills?
Council tax, water rates, gas and electricity are the tenants responsibility - meter readings are taken on the day you move in/out. You also need to budget for phone line and TV licence.
Furnished or unfurnished?
Generally, a fully furnished property will include everything you need to live there apart from your personal belongings. Unfurnished properties will usually include most white goods, carpets and curtains.
What's the difference between a fully managed property and tenant find only?
A fully managed property is under the control of Swiftlets for all day to day issues. With tenant find only, we will install you in the property on day one, but after that, your Landlord will be your point of contact for rents, maintenance and any other issues.
Do I need insurance?
Yes! All your belongings need to be insured by yourself while in the property. You may also want to take out cover to protect your bond in case of unforeseen accidents. We can provide specific information for both of these policies.
How binding is my Tenancy Agreement?
Once you have signed, you are committed to the property for the length of the Agreement and all the rent due - usually for 6 months. After this, you only need to give one month's notice to leave (a full payment period), or you can sign up for another fixed term if you prefer.
What about pets?
We can usually persuade most Landlords to accept small family pets - do not expect to turn up with 3 large Rotweillers and be allowed in! For this, you will need to pay and extra pet bond of £150.