Welcome to Your New Home with Cooke & Co
Moving into a new home is an exciting moment and we would like to welcome you to your new property. At Cooke & Co we understand that a tenancy is more than simply signing paperwork and collecting keys. It is the start of a new chapter and we want to make the experience as smooth and straightforward as possible.
With more than 30 years of experience managing property across Margate, Ramsgate, Broadstairs and the wider Thanet area, you are in safe hands. Our role is not only to manage the property on behalf of the landlord but also to help guide and support tenants throughout their tenancy.
If you ever encounter a problem with the property or experience financial difficulties, please contact us as early as possible. Open communication often allows issues to be resolved more easily and helps us keep the landlord informed.
Important Information for Tenants in 2026
Private renting rules in England changed from 2026. Most private tenancies now operate as periodic tenancies rather than fixed term assured shorthold tenancies. This means the tenancy usually continues month to month until either the tenant gives notice or the landlord uses a valid legal ground to recover possession.
Rent increases must follow the correct legal notice process and normally cannot occur more than once in a twelve month period. Landlords and agents also cannot invite or accept offers above the advertised rent and cannot request rent before the tenancy agreement has been signed.
Tenants can request permission to keep a pet and landlords must consider the request fairly. Written consent must still be obtained before bringing a pet into the property.
Your tenancy agreement and welcome documentation will explain the specific terms that apply to your tenancy.
Things to Do
- Enjoy your home. Treat the property as you would your own home and enjoy living in it.
- Understand your tenancy agreement. Your tenancy agreement sets out the rights and responsibilities of both landlord and tenant. If anything is unclear, please ask.
- Check the inventory carefully. When you move in you will receive an inventory or schedule of condition. Review it carefully and report any discrepancies in writing within seven days.
- Report maintenance issues promptly. If a repair issue arises, please report it as soon as possible. Early reporting can prevent a small problem becoming more serious.
- Provide written reports where possible. When reporting maintenance issues, written communication and photographs help create a clear record.
- Keep communication open. If your personal circumstances change or you experience financial difficulty, please contact us early so we can discuss the situation.
- Pay rent on time. Rent should be paid on the agreed date each month unless another arrangement has been agreed in writing.
- Respect neighbours. Being considerate of neighbours helps maintain a pleasant environment for everyone in the building or area.
- Arrange contents insurance. Landlords insure the building, but tenants are responsible for insuring their own belongings.
- Follow move out procedures. At the end of the tenancy please follow the agreed check out process to help ensure a smooth transition.
Things Not to Do
- Do not make alterations without permission. Decorating, installing fixtures or making structural changes must not be carried out without written consent.
- Do not allow long term guests to move in. Additional occupants may require landlord approval and changes to tenancy documentation.
- Do not ignore property issues. Problems such as leaks, damp or electrical faults should always be reported promptly.
- Do not carry out unauthorised repairs. Repairs should be arranged through the correct reporting process unless there is an emergency.
- Do not change locks without permission. Security changes require landlord approval and a key must normally be provided to the managing agent.
- Do not engage in illegal activities at the property. Any illegal activity may result in serious legal consequences and could put your tenancy at risk.
- Do not ignore communication. If we contact you regarding the property or tenancy matters, please respond promptly so issues can be resolved quickly.
- Do not forget your utility responsibilities. Unless stated otherwise, tenants are responsible for setting up accounts for gas, electricity, water and council tax.
Repairs and Maintenance
If a maintenance issue arises during your tenancy, please report it through the repair reporting system on our website or by contacting our office directly. Providing clear details and photographs where possible helps ensure the issue is addressed efficiently.
Emergency repairs should be reported immediately using the emergency contact instructions provided in your tenancy welcome pack.
Your Tenancy Deposit
If a tenancy deposit has been taken it will be protected in a government approved tenancy deposit protection scheme. The scheme details and prescribed information will be provided as part of your tenancy documentation.
The deposit is normally returned at the end of the tenancy subject to the condition of the property and any agreed deductions such as unpaid rent or damage beyond fair wear and tear.
Communication and Support
Your comfort, safety and satisfaction as a tenant are extremely important to us. Cooke & Co aim to provide transparent communication, efficient property management and a supportive approach throughout your tenancy.
If you have a question about your tenancy, need help reporting a repair or simply want clarification about something in your agreement, please contact our team. We are always happy to assist.
We Are Here to Help
At Cooke & Co we believe that well managed tenancies create better experiences for both tenants and landlords. By working together and keeping communication open, we can help ensure that your time in the property is comfortable, straightforward and enjoyable.