Once you have found your perfect rental property, it’s time to start the application process…
Most likely you will be expected to put down some form of advanced payment (a ‘Preliminary Payment’) in order to confirm your ‘offer’ and state your intention to rent the property (subject to contracts and referencing). It is important to know that should you fail your referencing, you might forfeit that advanced payment (strictly subject to the terms and conditions of application). Check what your lettings agents` terms & conditions are, as they may vary.
You will be required to fill out a tenancy Application Form, provide an ID and a proof of your current residential address. It is of utmost importance to provide your agent with original documents in order to speed the process up and avoid unnecessary complications or delays. The agent must also verify your I.D. with you in person (a selfie with your ID could cheer the office staff up on a busy day but won`t be acceptable!).
Bear in mind that each person that intends to live in the property has to provide all required documents and fill out a separate Application Form. Typically, you will have to provide your personal details, emergency contact, previous address, employment information, personal references and current landlord details. Again, the questions may vary slightly but it is usually general information and it should only take you a few minutes to fill out the Application forms.
The rental Application Form should require you to give consent and a clear indication that you have read and understood the terms and conditions of application (by signing and dating the document) and that you authorise your Lettings Agent to obtain credit and background checks. As scary as this may sound, there is nothing to worry about as it is straightforward procedure that will help the Landlord determine if you, as an applicant, would be a suitable tenant and ensure you are able to commit to the monthly rental payment.
This, of course, is in terms of character and your ability to comfortably meet your financial commitments. It is illegal for a Landlord to deny housing to anyone on the grounds of race, gender, religion, disability, marital status or national origin.Should you require any more information, please get in touch with one of our Kings’ offices in London, Reading, Maidenhead, Staines or Windsor.
