Your Landlord must supply you with several important documents when renting a property in Durham. The expert team here at PIIM Property have prepared this helpful guide so you know exactly what to expect as a tenant.
1. Your Tenancy Agreement
Your tenancy agreement is the most important document when renting a property. This contract is either a digital or written document setting out your tenancy’s legal terms. The agreement must detail:
- Names of all parties
- Property address
- Tenancy beginning and end dates
- How much the rent will be
- How to pay the rent
- Deposit amount and how the landlord will protect it
- Landlord and tenant’s obligations
Additional clauses may include information about subletting, pets, common area or garden rules, rent reviews, and permitted occupiers. You should always read the agreement carefully before you sign so you are familiar with your rights and responsibilities during your tenancy.
2. A “How To Rent” Guide Document
The How To Rent Guide must be supplied before the start date of the tenancy.
3. Information About Your Deposit Protection
If your tenancy agreement is an AST (assured shorthold tenancy), your deposit has to be protected and registered in a tenancy deposit scheme. Your landlord is legally required to give you deposit prescribed information including details of how much you paid, the property’s address, contact information for the administrator of the scheme, and the tenant and landlord’s address, name, and contact information within a 30 day period.
4. An EPC
It is a legal requirement for a rental property to have an energy performance certificate (EPC) with a rating of E or higher. Landlords have a legal obligation to give you a copy of the property’s EPC if you request it. The property’s EPC if available, can be found online here.
5. An EICR
The Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) assesses the property’s electrical systems for safety and efficiency. You have the right to request a copy.
6. The Gas Safety Record
When your rental property has had its gas appliances and fittings inspected, its gas safety record will be issued and this document must be given to your before your tenancy begins. Make sure you’ve checked the certificate expiry date for validity.
7. The Inventory document
This tenancy document outlines all of the contents of the property along with their condition. While It isn’t legally required, it’s strongly recommended that landlords supply an inventory to their tenants including details of ceilings and walls, fittings and fixtures, flooring, windows and doors, kitchen appliances and units, bathroom facilities, gardens, and outbuildings (if applicable), and furniture (if fully or partially furnished) along with a copy of the tenancy agreement.
Are you Thinking of Renting A Property?
Are you looking for a suitable rental property in Durham? Then make PIIM Property your first port of call. Take a look at our website for details of the latest rental properties in Durham, or give our friendly team a call on 01207 772033 to find out more about how we can help you find the perfect place to live.
