Tenant Services
Comprehensive guide to renting
Our experienced and friendly teams are here to help you find your ideal home to rent. From one bedroom apartments to large family homes, in or out of town, furnished or unfurnished, whatever you are looking for we can help you find it.
Our website is updated daily with new properties or you can speak directly to any of our Lettings negotiators to discuss your requirements.
We offer a comprehensive Guide to Renting in and around the local areas for all applicants which provides tips and advice on the rental process and what to expect when renting a property from Macaulay & Co.
Our objective is to make the process of renting a property clear and simple. We wish to offer a transparent service to our tenants, with our fees advertised at the outset. Our knowledge of the lettings market and our properties is freely available, allowing you to make the right decisions.
Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST)
Holding Deposit
(per tenancy)
One week’s rent. This is to reserve a property. Please Note: This will be withheld if any relevant person (including any guarantor(s)) withdraw from the tenancy, fail referencing or a Right- to-Rent check, provide materially significant false or misleading information, or fail to sign their tenancy agreement (and/or Deed of Guarantee) within 15 calendar days (or other Deadline for Agreement as mutually agreed in writing).
Security Deposit (per tenancy. Rent under £50,000 per year)
Five weeks’ rent. This covers damages or defaults on the part of the tenant during the tenancy.
Security Deposit (per tenancy. Rent of £50,000 or over per year)
Six weeks’ rent. This covers damages or defaults on the part of the tenant during the tenancy.
Unpaid Rent
Interest at 3% above the Bank of England Base Rate from Rent Due Date until paid in order to pursue non-payment of rent. Please Note: This will not be levied until the rent is more than 14 days in arrears.
Lost Key(s) or other Security Device(s)
Tenants are liable for the actual cost of replacing any lost key(s) or other security device(s). If the loss results in locks needing to be changed, the actual costs of a locksmith, new lock and replacement keys for the tenant, landlord and any other person(s) requiring keys, will be charged to the tenant. If extra costs are incurred there will be a charge of £15.00 per hour (inc. VAT) for the time taken replacing lost key(s) or other security device(s).
Variation of Contract
(Tenant’s Request)
£50.00 (incl VAT) per agreed variation. To cover the costs associated with taking landlord’s instructions as well as the preparation and execution of new legal documents.
Change of Sharer (Tenant’s Request)
£50.00 (incl VAT) per replacement tenant or any reasonable costs incurred if higher. To cover the costs associated with taking landlord’s instructions, new tenant referencing and Right-to-Rent checks, deposit registration as well as the preparation and execution of new legal documents.
Early Termination (Tenant’s Request)
Should the tenant wish to leave their contract early, they shall be liable for the landlord’s costs in re-letting the property, as well as all rent due under the tenancy until the start date of the replacement tenancy. These costs will be no more than the maximum amount of rent outstanding on the tenancy.
Client Money Protection Certificate
Tenant Guide to Renting a Property Through Macaulay & Co.
Renting a property can be a straightforward and enjoyable experience with the right guidance. At Macaulay & Co., we strive to make the process as smooth as possible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through renting a property with us.
Finding Your Ideal Property
Searching for Properties
- Visit our website or contact us directly to browse available rental properties.
- Consider your budget, preferred location, property size, and other specific requirements.
Viewing Properties
- Contact our team to arrange viewings of properties that interest you.
- During viewings, check the condition of the property and its amenities. Feel free to ask as many questions as possible!
Application Process
Submitting an Application
- Complete our rental application form with your personal details, employment information, and rental history.
- Provide necessary documents, such as ID, proof of income, and references.
Referencing and Credit Checks
- We conduct thorough referencing, including credit checks, employment verification, and previous landlord references, to ensure suitability.
Tenancy Agreement
Reviewing the Agreement
- Once your application is approved, we will prepare a tenancy agreement.
- Carefully read through the agreement, which outlines the terms and conditions of your tenancy.
Signing the Agreement
- Once you are satisfied with the terms, sign the tenancy agreement. A copy will be provided to you for your records.
- Pay the security deposit, which will be protected in a government-approved deposit protection scheme.
Moving In
Inventory and Check-In
- We will provide a detailed inventory report documenting the property’s condition and contents.
- Arrange a check-in appointment to receive keys and then you can head to the property to go through the inventory report independently.
Utilities and Services
- Contact utility providers to set up accounts for electricity, gas, water, and internet services. We will assist you with this!
During Your Tenancy
Rent Payments
- Ensure rent is paid on time as per the agreement, usually monthly via standing order.
Maintenance and Repairs
- Report any maintenance or repair issues to us promptly (or your landlord if self-managed).
Property Inspections
- If your tenancy is managed by Macaulay & Co. we will conduct periodic inspections to ensure the property is well-maintained. You will be notified in advance.
End of Tenancy
Notice Period
- If you wish to move out, provide the required notice as stated in your tenancy agreement. If you do need to terminate your contract within the contractual period, we will approach your landlord and request that they consider an early termination. If this is accepted, you will be liable for the associated costs for re-letting and will remain liable for the rent and all permitted payments including utility costs until a new tenant has collected keys and taken over the property. Please refer to the tenant fee schedule.
Moving Out
- A final inspection will be conducted to check the property’s condition against the inventory report.
- Your deposit will be returned, minus any deductions for damages or unpaid rent if necessary, in accordance with the deposit protection scheme’s rules.
Contact Us
We are here to assist you at every stage of your property journey. If you have any questions or need further assistance, please do not hesitate to contact our friendly team.
01535 279 326 | enquiries@macaulayandco.co.uk
We look forward to helping you move!
