Finding a property

The first step is to contact us to provide details about yourself and the accommodation you require. We will search our database for suitable properties and contact you to arrange a viewing. It is wise to start looking about a month before you wish to move, as the nicer properties are viewed and reserved quickly. Our tenancy agreements are granted for a minimum term of 6 months.

Viewings

Viewings will be arranged at times to suit you, including evenings and weekends. You will normally be accompanied by a member of our staff, who can give advice and answer any questions you may have.

Reserving the property

Once you have decided on a property, you will need to reserve it by paying a holding deposit, equivalent to one months rent. Assuming that the tenancy goes ahead, this will be deducted from the monies due before you move in. If the landlord declines to grant the tenancy, it will be refunded. However the deposit will be forfeited if you decide not to proceed for any reason, or if you fail to provide complete and accurate information in your application.

References

As a minimum we will require satisfactory references from your employer (or college), Bank and, if applicable, a previous or current landlord. We may also require a personal reference, and sometimes a guarantor. In addition a credit check may be undertaken. We may use the services of an independent referencing company to obtain and evaluate these references.

Rents

Rents are normally quoted calendar monthly, and payable monthly in advance. The tenant is usually also responsible for Council Tax, Water Rates, Gas, Electricity and Telephone costs. All rents are payable by bank standing order to our company bank account.

Deposit

A security deposit (bond) equivalent to one and a half month's rent must be paid. This is held to cover damage, breakages, and any other liabilities under the terms of your tenancy agreement. Please note that under no circumstances can the deposit be used by the tenant to cover rent.

Since 6th April 2007, all deposits taken by agents or landlords for Assured Shorthold Tenancies must be protected by a government-authorised tenancy deposit scheme. At Castleview Lettings, deposits are protected under the Deposit Protection Scheme (DPS). More information can be found at www.depositprotection.com

Insurance

Tenants are responsible for insuring their personal contents. Having such insurance will not only cover your contents but may also help protect you against claims from the landlord for accidental damage to their contents. We can offer assistance with Tenant Insurance, please ask a member of our staff for more information.