Renting New Build Flat

Suarez

I looked at a flat last week which is a new build so we went to view. The whole place was finished except carpets/flooring but we assumed that would be done before we moved in.

The letting agents have just been on the phone and I asked about the carpets and they said we had to fit them as the advert said it was unfurnished.

We are in a bit of a panic now as this will cost us around £1000 and we have already paid a £150 fee to them

Is this normal? We assumed it would be carpeted out..

motherofstudents

Even in an unfurnished property, carpets are usually included. With it being a new build, it sounds like someone has bought it to let out and not bothered to fit carpets. You could try to negotiate, either lower your offer or say you will sign up for a longer term if the landlord fits carpets for you. Have you checked with the agent whether you can get this holding deposit back ?

sooz

What is on the floor at the moment?

No, it's not usual. But you did assume, rather than ask & confirm in writing before signing anything ( which is a must with any letting agent )

I would also expect that you will find the phone line hasn't been connected & that there is no tv aerial.

jjlandlord

Flooring is not part of the furnitures since it is a fixture. The agent is having a laugh.

What sort of 'fee' could you possibly have already paid?
Ask for your money back and look for another place.

Suarez

I paid 1 1/2 weeks rent to reserve the property.

I phoned the agents and asked for it back as I didn't sign anything and I asked the person for a receipt yesterday so they said they will refund it.

Thanks for all your input - just glad it wasn't just me who thinks it was ridiculous.