Tenants Guide

If you choose Imagine for your new rental property, we’ll do everything to ensure that your move is as smooth and stress-free as possible, so the information listed below explains all the main processes and fees you can expect. As part of this, you’ll receive a copy of the latest 'How to Rent' guide. There's also an 'easy read' version if you'd prefer. If you’re in doubt about anything at all, please ask - we’ll be more than happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. If you’re looking for a property to rent, start your search here.

The Imagine Lettings team is experienced in all areas of the rental market. We know what you’re going through because we’ve been there too! You can trust us to ensure we’ll take your individual needs into consideration and treat you honestly.

Securing your property

The rental market moves very quickly, and it can be frustrating when someone else pips you to the post for a property you really like. The best way to stop this from happening is to make sure all tenants come to the viewing and bring their photo ID and proof of address, as we need to see this prior to an offer being made on a property. If you wish to proceed with a property we will undertake Right to Rent and Adverse Media checks before you pay your holding deposit. 

Please note that due to money laundering regulations we cannot accept funds from third parties unless we have their ID and paper evidence of the source of the funds and an explanation of their involvement in the transaction.

References

We need references for everyone over the age of 18 who will be residing at the property. You’ll be asked to fill in a referencing form, then checks will be made on your employment status, current accommodation, credit status and your right to reside in the UK. We’ll also need two forms of identification: one photo ID (passport) and something with your current address on it (utility bill, bank statement etc.). The referencing process usually takes about 7 working days.

If you’re concerned about any possible negative issues, it’s better to raise these in advance so we can give you honest opinions and options which could save you unnecessary expenses and time later on.

Security deposit / Advance rent

You’ll be asked to pay 5 weeks' rent in advance, after which, you will then pay the rent monthly. Payments must be made in advance by bank transfer.

What happens next?

Once your references have been satisfactorily completed, we’ll ask you to sign a tenancy agreement. This document is there to protect all parties and to comply with the law in relation to letting. If you have any queries about this, we’ll be happy to answer them for you.

When can I move in?

When you pay your deposit, we’ll ask you when you’d prefer to move in. We’ll then liaise with the landlord to see if your favoured move-in date is possible. You can collect the keys on the agreed move-in date, as long as full payment of the deposit and advanced rent has cleared. We’ll take a photocopy of all keys provided and get you to sign to confirm receipt.

Do I need insurance?

We recommend that every tenant insures their own against any accidental damage to the landlords' fixtures and fittings for which the tenant is legally responsible under the assured shorthold tenancy. This may protect the tenants' deposit.

Check-in, Inventory, and Check-out

The inventory is a detailed report of the condition of the property and all of the items within. On the day of your move-in, an appointment will be made with either an independent inventory clerk or your landlord to go through the inventory report ready for you to sign. This inventory report will be reviewed when you decide to vacate the property and any flagged discrepancies will be the tenant’s responsibility. Please take the time to read your inventory to ensure you’re happy with everything listed in the initial report.

At the check-in and check-out meetings, the gas, electric and water meter will also be checked and you’ll be asked to sign to confirm that you agree with the readings.

Who do I contact, Imagine or the landlord?

Some of our landlords choose to have a managed service, whilst others prefer to deal with the maintenance themselves. On your move-in day, you’ll be notified of who will be looking after you and their contact details.

Here at Imagine, we’re on hand to answer any questions you may have about renting a home. We pride ourselves on knowing the properties inside and out, so if you have any questions about anything from keys to which day the bins are collected, we’ll have it on record. Please just ask us.

We hope that with us, you’ll experience ‘the perfect move’. We understand what a stressful time this can be and will do everything to ensure your move goes smoothly. And if you’re happy with our service, please tell your friends and colleagues.

Enjoy your new home!

We are members of TPO. For more information, visit www.tpos.co.uk
A copy of our in-house complaints procedure can be found here.

Our Client Money Protection is with SafeAgent.
Certificates: A3205, A3214, A5340, A5341