Guide for Tenants

Information for new and prospective tenants

These notes are intended as general guidance for prospective tenants who have applied for a tenancy through Meldrum Salter Edgley. They are supplementary to the Tenancy Agreement and should be read in conjunction with the same.

Once you have moved in, you should contact our Property Management & Building Surveyors Department on 01483 504200 (option 3) on matters of maintenance, tenancy and any other queries. This department is open Monday – Friday 9.00 – 5.30pm. (For out of hours service, please see ‘Emergencies’ on the previous page)

Services

It is the responsibility of the tenant to set up accounts with the providers of services such as gas, electricity, water, telephone and Council Tax. These arrangements should be made in advance of the commencement of the tenancy to avoid existing connections being severed. Whereas in the past, one company typically provided each individual service, now with deregulation any number of companies can be involved. All the information you may need regarding the present service providers is available from our office. Once you move in please let us know which companies you have elected to use and also if there are any changes in the same during your tenancy.

Tenants are responsible for paying the TV licence and any cost to reconnect existing satellite or cable facilities.

If tenants wish to have new satellite or cable connections then prior permission must be obtained from Meldrum Salter Edgley before any connection is arranged.

Insurance (Unfurnished Properties)

You are required to arrange insurance to cover your own furnishings and personal possessions. In addition there is the requirement for tenants to insure against accidental damage to the Landlord’s possessions, e.g. carpets, appliances, curtains etc. Few insurance policies make such provision, however, a leaflet is enclosed detailing the HomeLet policy for tenants insurance which does cover you and is specifically designed for let properties.

Washing Machines

Where combination boilers are installed the hot water supply is at full mains pressure. Some older washing machines may need the hot water inlet valve changed to a valve that will withstand this higher pressure. If a washing machine is used with an incorrect valve, flooding may occur. If you are in any doubt please contact the office before you connect your machine. Please note that this does not apply to modern ‘cold fill only’ appliances

Loft Access

Access to the loft area (if any) is only allowed for reasons arising from an emergency. The use of any such area for storage or any other purpose is not permitted.

Inspections

Periodic inspections of the property are required, normally in the first month after you have moved in, and then at either three or six month intervals thereafter. Inspections are our way of keeping an eye on the property on behalf of the owner. We will observe whether the property is being properly looked after and, just as importantly, attend to any issues relating to ongoing maintenance. Arrangements will be made with you in advance.