Tenant FAQs

Welcome to Our Tenant FAQ Section

With over 30 years of experience in lettings in Thanet, we at Cooke & Co have gathered the most frequently asked questions by our tenants. Our aim is to provide you with comprehensive and helpful answers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable renting experience. If your question isn't listed here, please feel free to contact us for personalised assistance.

Yes, Cooke & Co is committed to inclusivity and supporting diverse tenant backgrounds. For unemployed tenants, we require a guarantor who is in full-time employment. This guarantor will co-sign the tenancy agreement, ensuring they understand their responsibility to cover the rent and any potential damages should the tenant be unable to do so.

To qualify as a tenant without a guarantor, Cooke & Co typically requires that you have been in continuous full-time employment for at least 6 months with your current employer. This helps us ensure the stability and reliability of rent payments. However, we understand that everyone's circumstances are different, and we are willing to review applications on a case-by-case basis.

Rent is due on a monthly basis, in advance. It's important to budget not only for rent but also for utility bills, council tax, and any other expenses. Rent payments are made directly to Cooke & Co, and it's crucial to maintain timely payments to avoid any potential issues with your tenancy.

The deposit is typically equal to five weeks' rent and is protected in a government-approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme. It is refundable at the end of your tenancy, subject to the condition of the property and any outstanding rent or bills. We provide full transparency on how your deposit is held and the conditions for its return.

As part of UK legislation, Cooke & Co conducts Right to Rent checks to verify that all tenants have the legal right to rent a property in the UK. This involves reviewing and copying your identification documents, such as a passport or residence permit. These checks are a standard procedure to ensure compliance with immigration laws.

Initial and final property inspections are conducted to document the condition of the property at move-in and move-out. This ensures that any changes or damages can be accurately assessed. Regular inspections may also occur during your tenancy to ensure the property is well-maintained. We strive to conduct these inspections with minimal disruption to your privacy and schedule.

Yes, it is a condition of the tenancy that gas, electricity, water, and telephone services are transferred to the tenant's name for the duration of the tenancy. Cooke & Co can provide guidance on how to transfer these services, and any applicable deposits are the tenant's responsibility.

Tenants are responsible for paying Council Tax for the property they are renting directly to the Local Authority. Cooke & Co can provide assistance and guidance on how to set up Council Tax payments and inform the Local Authority of your tenancy.

No, building insurance is typically the responsibility of the landlord/freeholder, who insures the building. However, tenants are advised to consider contents insurance to protect their personal belongings within the property.

Yes, Cooke & Co advises tenants to have adequate contents insurance to cover their personal belongings, as well as the landlord's fixtures and fittings, against damage. We can assist you in arranging contents insurance and recommend reputable brokers if needed.

Pets are generally not allowed without prior permission, but exceptions may be made in certain circumstances. Any agreements regarding pets must be made in writing before signing the tenancy agreement and may incur additional rental fees.

It is the tenant's duty to keep the property clean, tidy, and secure, including maintaining the garden in good order. Any damage caused by the tenant must be repaired at their expense. Cooke & Co can provide guidance on maintenance responsibilities outlined in the tenancy agreement.

Any alterations or modifications to the property must be approved in writing by Cooke & Co and the landlord before implementation. This includes painting, installing fixtures, or making structural changes. Unauthorized alterations may result in deductions from the deposit or other consequences.

If you experience any issues or maintenance concerns with the property, please report them to Cooke & Co as soon as possible. We will promptly address your concerns and coordinate necessary repairs with the landlord or property management team.