Below shows the most common questions we get asked about along with accompanying answers:
Bins- For the borough of Westminster please visit http://www3.westminster.gov.uk/env/streetsearch.cfm
- For the borough of Kensington & Chelsea please visit http://www.rbkc.gov.uk/pdf/collection_schedule.pdf
Does a 6 month break clause come as standard?
NO. A break clause, of any length, is a request and can be denied by both the Landlord and the Tenant.
When is it best to request a break clause?
A break clause is best used when you know that after a certain point in the tenancy you require flexibility with regards to continuing renting the Property. For a Tenant this may because you are on a probation period with your employer and do not have a guaranteed job at the end of it. For a Landlord it nay because you are looking to put your property onto the sales market later in the year.
When should you not request a break clause?
As a tenant, if you have no intention of moving house in the foreseeable future then you should look to secure a property for the longest contract possible. Yes, this does lock you into the tenancy but it also safeguards you against rent increases and the Landlord from serving you notice.
Who organises the inventory?
It is the Landlord's responsibility to create an inventory, for their property, detailing all of the contents and their condition. The Landlord requires an inventory if they wish to pursue tenants for any damages caused during the Tenancy.
Who organises the Check-In?
It is the Landlord's responsibility to organise the Check-In. At the check-in the tenants and landlord are required to go through the inventory and check that everything stated is true and that there have been no omissions with regards to contents or damages.
Who organises the Check-Out?
It is the Tenant's responsibility to organise the Check-Out at the end of the Tenancy. It is advisable for both the tenant and the landlord to be present to ensure that there are no discrepancies with the final report and release of the tenant's deposit.
Do I get access to the local communal gardens?
Generally if your property borders a communal garden then you are entitled to access it and use it. However, each garden has its own permissions and rules and in some cases properties within a certain distance of the gardens are granted access rights. The best thing to do is, once you have found your property, contact the local communal garden committee and they will answer all of your questions.
How do I get access to the local communal gardens?
If your property is eligible for access to your local communal gardens then you can contact the garden committee to get a key. In most cases you do not have to pay for the key but are required to put down a deposit.
Does it cost anything to use my communal gardens?
All properties with access to the local communal gardens will have an additional charge associated with their council tax. You will need to contact your local borough council to get this exact figure.
In the Borough of Westminster - http://www.westminster.gov.uk/services/councilgovernmentanddemocracy/councils/counciltaxandfinance/enquiries/
In the Borough of Kensington & Chelsea - http://www.rbkc.gov.uk/councilanddemocracy/counciltax/counciltaxservices.aspx
How much is my Council Tax?
In the Borough of Westminster,
In the Borough of Kensington & Chelsea
Am I eligible for a discount or Council Tax exemption?
If you are living as a single occupant you will be entitled to a 25% discount.
For further information on discounts in the Borough of Westminster/Kensington and Chelsea:
When and where does it apply?
The congestion charge applies between 0700 and 1800, from Monday to Friday. It is not applicable on weekends, English Public Holidays, designated non-charging days, or between 1800 and 0700, Monday to Friday. All of Cameron Pearson's main property areas are within the Congestion Zone; for a more detailed map visit Transport for London.
Resident Permit holders are entitled to a Congestion Charge discount, as well as other residents and vehicles; visit Transport for London for more details.
Who is responsible for insuring the contents of my property?
The Landlord is responsible for insuring their own possessions in the property. The tenant is responsible for insuring their own personal items in the property. If the property was provided unfurnished then the tenant is responsible for insuring all their possessions and furniture.
How much do I pay as a security deposit?
The standard amount requested by a Landlord will be a deposit equal to 6 weeks rent. In the event that the tenant has a pet, the Landlord may request an additional 2 weeks extra, making the deposit equal to 8 weeks rent.
Where is my deposit held?
Cameron Pearson will register and hold your deposit with The Deposit Protection Service (DPS) for the duration of your tenancy. For more information on DPS please visit: http://www.depositprotection.com/
It is a legal obligation of the Landlord to provide a valid Gas Safety Certificate (GSC) for the Property prior to the commencement of any Tenancy. A GSC will be valid for one year and it is the responsibility of the Landlord to renew the GSC, during any tenancy, if it is going to expire. In the event that there is no gas in the property, the Landlord must provide a signed No Gas Letter stating this.
How do I apply for a parking permit?
Can I have a pet in my property?
This is solely down to your Landlord and is dealt with on a case-by-case basis. Do not decide to not tell your Landlord and move your pet in at a later date, as if the Landlord discovers the pet and does not want it there, you will be in breach of your Tenancy Agreement. Generally properties on the Lower Ground Floor, with access to outside space, are more likely to be granted approval for pets, especially with cats and dogs. Also, be aware that the Landlord may ask for an additional 2 weeks rent towards the deposit to be set against any wear, tear and damages caused by your pet.
How many months rent am I expected to pay in advance?
Prior to the commencement of any tenancy the tenant is required to pay at least one month's rent in advance. The tenant may wish to pay more than one month's rent in advance or to pay the rent quarterly, half-yearly or annually in order to negotiate a better deal on the Property.
How do I pay my rent?
Prior to the commencement of any tenancy the tenant is required to set up a standing order with their bank to ensure that the monthly rent is paid in advance, automatically on the relevant day of each month or payment period.
Can I smoke in my property?
No. This is always the case with rented accommodation due to the fire risks associated with smoking in an enclosed space. If you decide to smoke you will be in breach of your tenancy agreement, you will be fully responsible for any damage caused to the property and you the Landlord may deduct monies from your deposit to re-paint discoloured walls and to remove the smoke smell from the property.
Who is responsible for the utilities?
With the exception of all-inclusive-rent contracts, the utilities are the responsibility of the tenant. Upon securing a property ensure that you contact the relevant utility providers to notify them of your move-in date and when you will be responsible for paying the bills. Ask the Landlord, or Landlord's agent, to provide you with the current utility providers contact details and also the initial meter readings upon your move-in.
Can I change my utility providers?
You can change your utility providers but only with the permission of your Landlord, unless this is otherwise stated in your Tenancy Agreement. This also applies to landline telephone numbers, so if you need to bring your number with you to your new property make sure you have requested the Landlord's permission prior to signing the contract.