Why Tenants Choose Homespot

    • Straightforward applications – clear criteria, digital forms, and quick decisions.
    • Quality homes – properly presented listings with accurate details and professional photos.
    • Safe & compliant – homes meet legal standards; your deposit is protected with a government‑approved scheme (DPS).
    • Responsive support – dedicated property managers and 24/7 maintenance reporting.
    • Fair paperwork – legally compliant ASTs you can sign securely online.
    • Clear communication – honest updates, no hidden surprises.

Before You Apply

  • Check your budget – typical affordability is 2.5–3× monthly rent (or a suitable guarantor if needed).
  • Know your move‑in date – most homes aim for 1–4 weeks from offer; we’ll agree realistic timelines.
  • Be ready with documents – see the list below so we can progress quickly.
  • Pets & preferences – tell us upfront (pets, parking, furnishings, length of tenancy) so we can match you well.

How the Process Works (Step‑by‑Step)

  1. Search & view – enquire online; we’ll confirm viewing slots and send details.
  2. Apply – submit your application and any notes (e.g., pets, special requirements).
  3. Offer & holding deposit – if the landlord accepts your offer subject to checks, we may take a holding deposit (max 1 week’s rent) to reserve the property.
  4. Referencing – affordability, credit, ID/Right to Rent, employment & landlord checks.
  5. Tenancy setup – AST issued for e‑signature; tenancy deposit (typically up to 5 weeks’ rent) and first rent collected.
  6. Move‑in – inventory, meter readings, keys and welcome information.
  7. Ongoing support – maintenance, inspections and renewals managed smoothly.

Referencing & Affordability

  • Income & affordability – usually 2.5–3× monthly rent across applicants. Alternative arrangements (e.g., guarantor) considered case‑by‑case.
  • Credit checks – soft credit and adverse history review.
  • Employment verification – recent payslips or contract; self‑employed may provide SA302/tax returns or accountant’s letter.
  • Landlord reference – if previously renting.
  • Right to Rent – required by law before move‑in (e.g., UK/Irish passport, or share code with BRP/visa). We’ll guide you through the options.

If a guarantor is needed, they will usually need to demonstrate stronger affordability and pass similar checks.

Documents You’ll Need (Typical)

  • Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
  • Proof of Right to Rent (where required)
  • Proof of income (payslips, contract, SA302, or accountant’s letter)
  • Recent bank statements (to support affordability)
  • Previous landlord/letting agent reference (if applicable)

Fees, Deposits & What’s Permitted (Tenant Fees Act 2019)

We keep fees fair and compliant. Under the Tenant Fees Act (England):

  • Permitted payments include: rent; holding deposit (max 1 week’s rent); tenancy deposit (up to 5 weeks’ rent) if annual rent is under £50,000 (6 weeks if above); utilities/council tax/TV licence/communications (if stated in the tenancy); default charges for late rent and lost keys/security devices (reasonable and evidenced); tenancy variation/assignment/early termination where requested by you (typically capped or charged at reasonable cost).
  • Holding deposit: usually applied to your first rent or tenancy deposit. It may be retained in specific situations (e.g., you withdraw, provide materially false information, fail Right to Rent, or don’t take reasonable steps to enter the tenancy). We’ll confirm details in writing before you pay.
  • No hidden admin fees.

Your tenancy deposit will be protected with the Deposit Protection Service (DPS) and Prescribed Information served within the legal timeframe.

Moving In

  • AST e‑signature – your tenancy agreement will be clear and sent for secure signing.
  • Payments – first month’s rent and tenancy deposit are due before key collection.
  • Inventory & check‑in – detailed condition report with photos; meter readings recorded.
  • Keys & access – we’ll confirm key handover and access instructions.
  • Welcome info – how to report maintenance, contact details, and emergency guidance.

During Your Tenancy

  • Reporting repairs – use our 24/7 maintenance portal; we triage and arrange contractors.
  • Emergency issues – follow the guidance in your welcome info; health/safety repairs are prioritised.
  • Inspections – routine condition checks (typically quarterly) with respectful notice.
  • Rent payments – paid by standing order or as agreed; talk to us early if there’s a problem.
  • Rent reviews – handled fairly and in line with your tenancy terms and current legislation.
  • Communication – you’ll have a dedicated property manager for support and updates.

Renewals & Moving Out

  • Renew or roll on – we’ll discuss your plans well before the end date; options include a new fixed term or periodic tenancy (subject to agreement).
  • Notice – if you intend to leave, please follow the notice requirements in your AST.
  • Check‑out – final inspection against the inventory with fair wear‑and‑tear considered.
  • Deposit return – we aim to resolve quickly. Any proposed deductions will be itemised; disputes can use the DPS alternative dispute resolution service.

Accessibility, Support & Fairness

  • Reasonable adjustments – tell us if you need documents in a different format or other support.
  • Pets & specific needs – considered case‑by‑case with the landlord; stronger cleaning clauses or pet rent may apply where agreed and lawful.
  • Data protection – your information is handled securely in line with privacy regulations.
  • Complaints – raise issues with your property manager; if unresolved, you can escalate via our redress scheme (insert scheme name/ID here).

FAQs

Usually a few working days once documents are provided.

We can assess via alternative evidence or a guarantor.

Please ask first — written consent is usually required.

Case‑by‑case with the landlord’s approval and any agreed terms.

Typically utilities, council tax, and communications unless specified otherwise in your tenancy.

Default charges may apply as permitted by law and set out in your AST. Talk to us early — we’re here to help.

Guidance only — not legal advice. Regulations can change; we’ll keep you updated and confirm key terms in writing for your tenancy.