Start the search

Start by taking emotion out of the process. Make a list of the things you really need in a property. How many bedrooms will you require? What locations are you thinking of? Furnished or unfurnished? Do you have a rental period in mind? And critically, how much are you willing to spend? Be practical and realistic with your budget. Before you start looking, decide what really matters. Is outside space a necessity? Can you be flexible with location? Have a firm idea of your priorities before you start the hunt.

Viewings

The London market moves fast, so make a point of seeing properties early. As soon you’ve found a listing that ticks all your boxes, call our lettings team on 020 8548 4343.

We’ll be present for every viewing, so you can ask all the questions you need. It’s always a good idea to write questions down before turning up. The rush of excitement when you find a place can make you forget practical considerations. We can attend viewings at any time between 9am and 6pm on weekdays and between 9am and 5pm on Saturdays. If you really need to see a place outside of these hours, give us call and we’ll see what we can do.

Making an offer

You’ve found the perfect rental pad. Now it’s time to seal that deal. We’ll submit your offer, along with any requests or stipulations. If the offer is accepted a holding deposit will be required (normally one week’s rent) whilst references are checked and credit checks made. CPS use the services of a trusted partner company to run these checks. If the Landlord pulls out of the process, your holding deposit will be returned in full. At any stage in the process you can get in touch with us for an update.

Checks and references

Once your credit status and references have been checked, we will draw up a tenancy agreement to be signed by all parties. You’re almost there now. Pay one month’s rent and a deposit, and you’re free to move in. That deposit will be placed into a tenancy deposit protection scheme. When you leave the property, assuming no damage has been done to the place, your money will be returned in full.

If you’re sharing the rent, you will be jointly liable. That means if one of you leaves the rental agreement early, the remaining tenants will need to pay the total rental amount.

Settling in

Pick up the keys. Read the meters. Get in touch with the utility companies to tell them you’ll now be the one paying the bills. Talk to your local council to update the council tax records, record the exact condition of the entire place with an inventory check arranged by us. It’s up to the landlord to insure the furniture and contents included in the rental agreement. If you want to protect your own possessions, personal insurance is a good idea. Once you’ve done all that, kick back. Relax. Enjoy.

Handling issues during your tenancy

On the day you move in, we’ll provide you with a welcome letter containing contact details for all relevant parties. If CPS are managing the property, you’ll be dealing with one of our property managers. If not, you will be dealing directly with the landlord. To avoid awkward follow-up calls, make sure your rent is paid on time. If, during your tenancy, you need to clarify any aspect of your rental agreement, including break clauses, payments or renewals, get in touch with our lettings department.