The Renting Process

Renting a property is something that, until you find yourself in the process, not many people really think about. Renting is a great option for those who prefer the flexibility of being able to move more often, and almost 40% of London’s population rent! It’s also great to have a landlord to take care of repairs. But there are a number of factors to take into consideration before you get started.

This renting process guide will help you to be ready so that when you find your dream property, you can sign on the dotted line as quickly as possible.

Contact Belgravia Lettings, who will register your details and discuss your search requirements.

Think about your desired property type and location. Or discuss it with us, we would be glad to help you refine your search.

Consider your ‘must-have’ criteria – what won’t you compromise on, and what would constitute a ‘deal-breaker’?

 How much would you be prepared to pay for the right property?  Should you wish to pay per calendar month, you will be required to undergo comprehensive tenant reference checks. This will limit your calendar monthly affordability to 40% of your gross calendar monthly wage. 

 How long are you planning on living in London? If you’re after a short let (less than 6 months), please refer to our Short Stay page for more information.  

 We recommend beginning your search around 6-8 weeks prior to your ideal move date.  

Your negotiator will show you the best properties available in line with your requirements.

The London property market moves very quickly. If you find the perfect property, one that suits the majority of your requirements, you may wish to place an offer on the same day – be prepared, it may be the first one you see!

  Upon finding a suitable property, complete an offer form with your negotiator, ensuring all of your requirements and details about you are clearly stated. You will also be required to pay a down payment equivalent to one weeks' rent as demonstration of your commitment to the Landlord. This amount will be deducted from your final statement of account. 

Upon acceptance of your offer, you will then be sent the Tenancy Agreement and other necessary documentation which should be read through thoroughly. Your negotiator will be pleased to help should you have any questions.

Reference checks will be made at this stage usually by an independent third party. It is important that any referencing requests are actioned immediately to avoid any unnecessary delays in securing your tenancy.

You will also be issued with a statement of account for your initial payment. This will include:

• Rent for the first month (or the first period dependant on how the rent is paid)
• The deposit which is equal to 5 or 6 weeks rent (depending on the rental amount)
• The down payment made upon acceptance of the offer will be deducted from this total

Future payments for rent should be made by standing order. You’ll be requested to provide proof that this has been set up with your bank.

Provided that all payments are made, references are in order and tenancy agreements are signed by both parties, your keys will be available for collection on the start date of the tenancy, usually from the office or via appointment with an inventory clerk. Your negotiator will ensure that this is organised at a convenient time.

You will need to inform your utility providers that you have moved into the property and ensure that all accounts are transferred into your name as quickly as possible.

A copy of the inventory check-in report will be sent to you (usually by email) shortly after move-in. Should you have any comments or questions, they should be raised as soon as possible after receipt.