Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)
What fees do I pay to Jacob’s Ladder?
In-line with current UK legislation, we do not charge an administration fees, but we do take a ‘Holding Deposit‘ equal to one weeks rent. Once we have received this ‘Holding Deposit‘, we will hold the property for you during the application process and it will be removed from the market. We will aim to complete this process as soon as possible, and let you know whether or not you have been successful as swiftly as possible. Our general Terms of Business will be issued to you along with your New Tenancy Application Form, so you are aware from the outset of any charges that may or may not fall due from the outset of your dealings with our company.
What references are required?
We will require contact details for your employer so that we can confirm your salary and length/nature of your employment, as well as the details of your current or previous landlord. We will also carry out a full credit reference on each applicant, looking out for ADVERSE credit markers, such as CCJ’s, Bankruptcies etc and with that in mind, we will also require a copy of your photographic ID, such as your valid Passport or photo card Driving Licence. We will also require a copy of an official document showing your current address, such as a Council Tax statement.
How long will the referencing process take?
Usually 24/48 hours, however we do allow up to 15 days (in-line with current UK legislation) to confirm references, and to prepare the Inventory & Schedule of Condition and tenancy agreement. Our team will endeavour to let you know as soon as possible once we have received all the relevant information, and made a decision as to whether your application for a tenancy with Jacob’s Ladder has been successful.
How much money will I need to pay before moving in?
In addition to the ‘Holding Deposit‘ we will also require one month’s rent in advance together with a deposit equal to 5 weeks rent. The ‘Holding Deposit‘ can be deducted from the deposit balance due when your tenancy commences, should your tenancy application be successful. These amounts will need to be paid in cleared funds 24 hours prior to the commencement of any tenancy. The full 5 weeks tenancy deposit monies will then be lodged on your behalf by ourselves with the Deposit Protection Service (DPS) one of the government approved tenancy deposit protection schemes (www.depositprotection.com).
How do I pay the rent on a monthly basis?
At the outset of your tenancy, we will ask you to complete a standing order mandate to give to your bank / building society. This will become active from month two of your tenancy.
What are my responsibilities once my tenancy period commences?
Your responsibilities will be clearly set out in the tenancy agreement we will issue you when your tenancy begins. We would strongly advise that you read through this document thoroughly before signing, and ask a member of our team should you have any questions.
Essentially, the property owner and landlord is responsible for the general maintenance of the property and providing buildings insurance. For example, if the boiler fails, this will be repaired as part of the landlord’s responsibilities. The tenant is responsible for keeping the property secure, clean and well maintained, and to pay for their own contents insurance, as well as all utility bills including gas, electricity, water and council tax.
What kind of tenancy agreement will I be asked to sign?
You will be issued with an Assured Short-hold Tenancy Agreement (AST) as introduced under the Housing Act as amended in 1996. This is a legally binding document between you and the landlord stating the address of the property, the monthly rent payable, the length of the tenancy and outlining your rights and responsibilities. The tenancy will initially be offered for a fixed period of six months, however subject to all things being in order during this initial period, the tenancy can be extended on a rolling basis.
What happens when my tenancy agreement is about to expire?
Long before your tenancy agreement is due to expire, we will have spoken to the property owner and landlord and ascertained whether or not you wish to remain in the property. Subject to all things being in order, we will allow you to remain in the property on an open ended, rolling basis.
The property owner and landlord must always give at least two months written notice to terminate a tenancy, however many of our landlords are keen to establish long term relationships with good tenants. We will do all we can to promote good communication between both parties to ensure stress free negotiations, and encourage long-term, settled tenancies.
What if my plans change and I wish to leave the property early?
Once a tenancy agreement is signed by both parties, you are legally bound for payment of the rent and payment of all utilities until the end of the fixed tenancy period. Please speak to a member of our team should any change in circumstance arise, so we can speak to the landlord on your behalf to try and best manage the situation.
What happens when my tenancy period is over?
Part of our role is to ensure that when your tenancy agreement has expired, all of your contractual obligations have been fulfilled. On behalf of the property owner and landlord, we will go through the property Inventory and Condition Schedule that was completed when you moved in to ensure that the property is in the same condition as it was then. We will of course take into account general wear and tear, however deductions may be made from your deposit should this not be the case. We would advise you to make sure the property is thoroughly cleaned, including windows, kitchen cupboards and any appliances, bathrooms/toilets and that any external areas are clean, tidy and free from weeds.
How do I receive my deposit back?
Once we have completed the final inspection, provided there is no damage or missing items and we have received proof that all utility bills have been settled, we will arrange with DPS to have your deposit returned as soon as possible.
