What makes Sandfords different?
We pride ourselves on having intricate area knowledge and being able to skillfully connect you to an appropriate property. From finding fabulous family homes to accommodation for professionals, our service reflects the quality of the properties we represent.
Bespoke Service
Our lettings consultants are committed to providing an exceptional and personal property service.
Experienced People
Our letting agents in North West London and Central London are experts in the area and their fields.
Track Record
Not only do we have an excellent track record for looking after tenants and landlords, but we are also a London Rental Standard Accredited Agency, members of the Association of Letting Agents, and regulated by the Property Ombudsman scheme.
Tenants FAQs
Renting property can be a challenge. Whether you’re arriving from overseas, arranging accommodation in the private sector, or searching for your home, there will be questions that need answers from experienced professionals. Read our FAQs below or get in touch with us.
Naturally, you need to find a property that you can afford so get financially prepared and know the costs and permitted payments involved in renting before your start your search. Start gathering together documents that your agent will need to confirm your identity, immigration status, credit history and possibly employment status.
You will be required to pay a deposit. Since the introduction of the Tenant Fees Act on the 1st of June 2019, landlords cannot legally ask you for any more than five weeks' worth of rent on rental properties with an annual rent below £50,000. For properties above this threshold, the cap is six weeks' rent. The Tenant Fees Act also bans letting agents and landlords from charging you any additional fees for processes such as credit checks, inventories and references. Holding fees – a fee you may pay to reserve a property while your application goes through – have also been capped at no more than one week's rent and must be returned to you within seven days of a decision unless your application failed due to specific reasons.
Check the inventory. An accurate inventory can help you to avoid disputes with your landlord over your deposit when you move out, so you must check this document carefully as soon as you move in. If you spot anything incorrect, make sure you record this. For example, add the details of missing items and make a note of and photograph any damage that hasn't been detailed. As a general rule, it's wise to take plenty of pictures to support the information you give.
On the day you move in, take gas, electricity and water meter readings and give these to the existing utility suppliers. You may want to take photos of your meters showing these readings too. Doing so will help ensure you get accurate first bills.
Unless it's included in your rent, you're in full-time education, or another exemption covers you, you'll need to pay council tax. To register to do this, contact your local council.
If you plan to watch TV live or through the BBC iPlayer, even if you're only going to do this on your tablet or laptop, you'll require a TV licence. You can register to pay online, by phone or by post. If you're paying by direct debit, you can choose to pay for an entire year upfront or make smaller payments each month or quarter.
On average in takes 20 days to rent a home in Britain. This was the time between a landlord instructing a lettings agent to advertise a property and an offer of rent being accepted.
Tenants Fees
Transparent fees and a trustworthy service
We are upfront about the fees involved when you rent property in central London and promise to always keep you informed—no surprises.
Tenants Guide
Let us guide you
Looking to rent property in London’s most sought-after areas? Our guide helps make home hunting hassle-free, and answers any questions you may have.