Worried about Renting New property - Credit checks

pixiepoopie

Hi there guys,

I'm looking to rent a new property and I'm worried abut the credit checks and how much I should tell them.

Basics are that my partner is unwell (has been for sometime), but has not received benefits for a while now.

I have a full time job and we both run a small online business, and now its got to the stage where we need to move more rural, for space and sanity.

My net salary is twice the monthly rent, but my partner has no real proof of income than working for the local gamekeeper 3 months of the year (only about £2,500).

My credit rating is good, I have checked. I do have a default on a loan for 4 years ago, and I am on a step change DM plan.

We can afford to move, I've checked and double checked. The problem with the business is that I have been throwing everything back into it I could to grow the business, rather than spending the profits. So on paper, it's not profitable. Turnover was £19,000 last year though.

We have guarantors available as well.

At the start of the year, we had a big shock, when the council informed us they suspected us of benefit fraud (ridiculous as he has been fighting for incapacity for a long time). My partner was called in, and there had been an over payment of housing benefit and council tax, from when he was receiving benefits. We now owe approx £8,000, which we are paying off on an arrangement.

Last but not least, we have a visit from the RSPCA/Dog warden/Council about 2x a year, because we have working dogs in kennels outside. We live in the middle of a village, and a couple of our neighbours don;t like the fact we have dogs outside, though 90% of the neighbours comment on how well behaved they are.

At all times, the RSPCA etc have said everything is fine, and we have never had a warning or such like from them, just a visit.

We really need to move. but I am so worried that the above factors will come into play. so here's my questions?

Should I disclose I am on a DMP? And have had a default?

Will the overpayment of council tax/housing benefit be classed as arrears? What should will tell the estate agents?

Do you think the council will say anything about the complaints about the dogs? If so, should I explain before they get the reference?

I have already explained about the business, should I offer the last 3 months accounts? Which show a good profit?

Any other advice gratefully received.