CAYSH
  • Monday 06 February 2012
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How do I find my own place?

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Moving onto independent living

Helping you find a suitable and safe place to live.

We vet local landlords to ensure you have access to suitable accommodation for your needs.

How will CRIAS be involved?

We pay your rent in advance and give your landlord a Bond Guarantee.The Bond Guarantee is instead of a cash deposit. This helps you to find a property even if you are unable to afford your own deposit.Your landlord is guaranteed that he will get some money from us if the property is damaged beyond reasonable wear and tear when your tenancy comes to an end.

We can also support you to find your own housing, and can mediate and advise you throughout the application and search process.

How do I know if my landlord or agent is any good?

When landlords are vetted, we check they have a good track record in tenancy relations.

If you are finding your own landlord, you view the property and have a chance to ask questions like…

Does the property have an EPC (Energy Performance Certificate)? How is the property heated? Does the gas boiler have a current gas safety inspection certificate?Are all the furniture and appliances in the property included?

How do I find a property?

When you have your interview, tell us as much as you can about what you like so we can match you with somewhere that suits you.

If you are looking for your own property, try to view a few so you get an idea of what is available in the area. Take someone with you to help you choose. If you’ve found your own place, let us know as soon as possible as places can go quickly.

Who is my agreement with?

Your agreement will be a private tenancy contract between you and the landlord.You are responsible for keeping the property in good order-for instance keeping it clean and not damaging the furniture, fixtures and fittings and keeping up your rent payments on time. Make sure you check your contract-we are happy to help you with this.

What if something goes wrong?

Try to keep talking with us and your landlord to resolve any issues, we will try to help wherever possible.

 

As a tenant you have rights to:

Proper notice if your landlord wants you to leave

Remain in your home until your landlord has obtained a possession order from the County Court

‘Quiet Enjoyment’ of your home-which means you do not have to put up with any unwarranted visits, contact, disturbance or any other form of harassment from your landlord

Reasonable notice (at least 24 hours) from your landlord if they want to visit and enter your home.You can deny access if they have given you no warning

If you are not sure whether your landlord is supposed to be doing what they are doing, check with the Citizen’s Advice Bureau, or the council’s housing advice section.