What documents are required for referencing?
References are always necessary and will be obtained through our approved referencing agency. Each individual involved in the tenancy must complete an application reference form. The tenancy only be granted upon receipt and approval of satisfactory references.
In addition, depending on your personal circumstances, the following may also be required:
Identification
All applicants, including guarantors (if applicable), must provide a valid Passport or Birth Certificate along with a National Insurance Number. Photographic identification such as a Driving Licence or National Identity Card may also be accepted. Non-EU applicants must submit a copy of their Biometric Residence Permit or current Visa, along with a Passport containing a UK immigration stamp.
Further referencing requirements are as follows:
- Proof of residency and Address
Proof of residency, which may include a utility bill (gas, electric, water, landline telephone) dated no more than three months prior to the tenancy commencement date. - Employed
The most recent three months' wage slips or a letter from the Personnel/Human Resources Department of your employer, confirming your address, start date of employment, and current salary. The letter must be signed and dated by the Payroll Department or Financial Director, with the printed name of the signatory. Emails cannot be accepted. If applicable, a reference from a previous landlord will be obtained on your behalf. - Self-Employed
Identification as mentioned above, along with a minimum of three years filed accounts. If the applicant has been self-employed for less than three years, they may require a guarantor and authenticated self-assessment tax calculation forms from HMRC (SA302 or SA100 forms). Alternatively, a letter from the accountant confirming drawings and the start date of the business may be acceptable. - Housing Allowance
Identification as mentioned above, along with pay slips (if the tenant works part-time) and a guarantor. Evidence from housing benefits confirming the progress or acceptance of your claim is also required. - Guarantor
Identification as mentioned above, along with the items listed in points 1 and 2.
Payments due before or upon the start of the tenancy
Deposit
A security deposit equivalent to five weeks' rent is required. The deposit will be returned at the end of the tenancy, provided the property is left in a clean and satisfactory condition with no damages. It will be registered and held by the TDS.
Rent
Rent is payable monthly in advance and should be paid by Standing Order on the 1st of each month. If the tenancy start date is not the 1st of a month, the rent will be calculated proportionally.
Will my money be securely held?
Your deposit is safe and will be kept with TDS Custodial, meaning they are holding your deposit as they are one of the government-approved tenancy deposits schemes, you will be with the details of your deposit and relevant documents for TDS.
How do we ensure our tenants are protected?
We are a registered member of the Propertymark Client Money Protection Scheme. This is a client money protection scheme to ensure your money is handled within the correct manner (find out more via the fact sheet here).
Download a copy of our Propertymark Client Money Protection Certificate here.
You can review the Propertymark Conduct and Membership Rules here.
We are also members of The Property Ombudsman (TPO), which is a redress scheme for consumer complaints. Our TPO Certificate can be downloaded here. There is also, a Consumer Guide which you can download here.
Our Data Protection (ICO) Certificate can be downloaded here.
What is the TDS (Tenant Deposit Scheme)? Find out here.
TDS #EW104763