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Tenant FAQs

Tenants' questions answered

If you’re looking for a property to rent in Brighton or Bognor, our residential lettings department has years of experience when it comes to finding the right home for you. But it doesn’t stop there. We’re on hand to ensure it’s a positive tenancy experience.

Whether you’re a first-time tenant or you’ve rented for years, it can be a confusing landscape with ever-changing legislation. The experts at PS&B have put together a list of frequently asked questions by tenants and the all important answers. If you can’t see your tenancy question below, just pick up the phone and get in touch.

Do you have to pay tenants’ fees when you find a property?: No, following The Tenant Fees Act in 2019 tenants are not required to pay fees to secure a property.
Do I have to provide a reference to be a tenant and why?: As part of the arrangement process you will be required to provide references which check your suitability and guarantee you will be able to cover the monthly rental cost. For residential lettings we’ll require details of your employer, bank and a written reference from any previous landlords (if applicable). A guarantor, someone who can offer the rent in the event you are unable to do so, may also be required. Personal ID such as passport or driving license will need to be shown. We use a regulated credit and referencing agency as part of our service.
How much deposit is required?: The deposit required from the tenant is normally the equivalent of five weeks rent. This will be held during the lifetime of the tenancy to be used in the event of damage above and beyond day-to-day wear and tear or failure to pay.
Is my deposit safe?: The Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme is a government-backed scheme introduced in 2017 which safeguards all deposits and offers protection. We’ll arrange this on your behalf where it will be kept safe and registered within 30 days of receipt and a certificate of registration will be provided.
Can the landlord come into the property without my permission?: Landlords and agents are required to give a minimum of 24-hours’ notice prior to a visit to the property. We will contact you to ask permission should we need to come in to conduct updates, repairs or to check on the property as part of your tenancy agreement.
What happens if something breaks while I am renting the property?: Should damage occur to the property above and beyond daily wear and tear our team is on hand to help arrange for repairs or replacements when it comes to household items or structural issues. Your deposit will cover any associated costs of damage from the tenancy unless it is caused by factors beyond your control.
Can the landlord increase the rent without notice?: Your tenancy agreement will outline in detail the notice period required before your landlord can increase the rent. Our team will help to negotiate between landlord and tenant in this situation to help advise both parties.
Can the lease extend beyond the end of the agreed tenancy period?: The opportunity to renew a lease beyond the agreed tenancy period is possible with most of our properties however the more notice you can offer the better.
How long does it take to return my deposit?: Once the property has been vacated the appropriate inventory check out and admin need to happen before the deposit can be returned. When the deposit amount to be returned has been agreed by all parties the deposit monies will be returned within 14 days.

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