To help you choose a suitable property you can perform a search on our website based on the criteria you require. From this, you can produce your own personalised property list. If you prefer, just call our office and our staff will help you with your search and give information about local areas and trends in the Newcastle and North East area.
We arrange accompanied viewings and always meet prospective tenants at our office for your protection and the security of our viewing staff. We also require contact details for you in the case of a last minute change of plan to avoid disappointment. Just phone to arrange viewings and if you require further clarification or information on your selected properties, we are here to help you, so please ask!
We manage some of the properties on our list. This means that we have been instructed to act on behalf of the landlord (at no extra cost to you!) who either is out of the area, or simply does not have time to deal with the day-to-day management of their rental properties. We are available during normal opening times and for your benefit; there is an additional out of hours answer phone facility, which receives immediate attention, upon our return.
How do I go about renting a property?
Having chosen the property you want, a reservation fee or holding deposit of £100 will take the property of the available list, cancel all further viewings, and (subject to the landlord's approval), guarantee you the property subject to satisfactory references being obtained. It is important to note, that his holding fee is not refundable should you withdraw or if the references prove unacceptable and you will sign a document to that effect before this fee can be accepted. Please note, if the landlord does not give his consent then all your deposit is available for an immediate refund or you can use it towards the deposit on another property, the choice is yours.
Before moving in how much will I have to pay?
- A damage deposit bond, (equivalent to at least one month's rent unless there is a special request clause which will carry a higher charge). This is refundable at the end of your tenancy providing you have met the requirements of your tenancy agreement
- Administration fee to cover personal referencing, office administration and the legal documentation of SPECIAL OFFER ADMIN FEES REDUCED TO £100.00
How do I pay my rent?
Rent is payable monthly / weekly, by standing order / cheque / postal order / in person. We will ask you to sign a mandate to your bank for this.
Who Advises the utility companies?
Tenants are reminded that it is your responsibity for payment of the provision of all the services to the property and we cannot guarantee that services are 'ON'. When moving into your new property, we advise you to read all meters, contact the relevant existing suppliers and local tax office for council tax payment or exclusion and to have all utilities accounts put into your name, to avoid disconnection of supply and any resulting reconnection charges. If we manage your new property, we can provide the opening meter readings and the names of the utilities companies and their phone numbers to help you.
Do I need a TV Licence?
The Television Licensing Authority stipulates you as the tenant must purchase a licence, if there is (or at any time during your tenancy), a TV in the property.
Are there any safety regulations?
All properties on our list comply with furniture, Gas and safety regulations. You will be given a copy of the Safety Certificate at the start of your tenancy.
Maintenance during your stay
If you have a problem with your property, please do not instruct a contractor directly, it may be covered by guarantee, insurance or maintenance agreement. If we manage your property, please contact Libra Properties as soon as possible and we will advise and organise everything for you. Please note, failure to comply with these instructions, could make you liable for any unauthorised payments or unreported damage. Additionally if a contractor is appointed and there is no fault or misuse, then the tenant would be liable if there is a callout charge to pay.
What is the term of my tenancy?
Most Assured shorthold tenancy agreements, are for a term of 6 months. After the minimum term is finished, unless you have given notice, they automatically change to a rolling tenancy after the minimum agreed period and remain so until either the landlord gives at least two months notice, or the tenant at least one months notice in writing, (either on or before for a rent day). In some cases, either the tenant or the landlord may request a new contract to ensure a determined period of rental is achieved. You will not usually be obliged to move out at the end of the rental term unless previously agreed in writing and a new tenancy agreement is not needed to extend your stay. However when you wish to leave, you must give at least one months notice in writing before a rent day. This is clearly set out in your tenancy agreement and must be complied with.
