Tell me about renting...

One_Fine_Day_2

We're considering the possibility of renting instead of buying a new property when our sale goes through imminently, and neither of us have rented in donkey's years so we're a bit adrift.

When you look on Rightmove at rental prices, does the monthly cost include anything other than the landlord and agent's money? Do we factor in council tax and water rates on top of this, or are they included in rent?

Thanks in advance.

~Beanie~

Unless it states otherwise, I would say that you have to pay bills (inc council tax and water rates) on top. I have had to pay them, in every house I've ever rented.

zebulon

One_Fine_Day wrote: »

When you look on Rightmove at rental prices, does the monthly cost include anything other than the landlord and agent's money?

Nope unless otherwise stated

One_Fine_Day wrote: »

Do we factor in council tax and water rates on top of this, or are they included in rent?

yep on top of this, no not incl in the rent (unless otherwise stated but that would be really rare, and I suppose you're not looking to be lodgers!)

and it does not include Agency fees...

One_Fine_Day_2

Thank you both.

One more question - how do you know what the council tax charge is likely to be? Does the agent have the details?

zebulon

One_Fine_Day wrote: »

One more question - how do you know what the council tax charge is likely to be? Does the agent have the details?

I have find a lot of agents or even private LL do not know (but im sure many others do!)

anyway all you need is the postcode (+building and flat number)
and this at least you should be able to get from them

then...

http://www.voa.gov.uk/cti/InitS.asp?lcn=0 (england and wales)

http://www.saa.gov.uk/ (scotland)

PasturesNew

Prepare to spend up to £200/person for the agency checks.
Watch out in the contract for a Booking In and a Booking Out fee (could be £75 to check the condition when you move in AND out)
Be prepared to py up to 2 months deposit.
All rent is payable in advance.
Watch what you're signing for - if it's a 6 month AST you can't decide you don't fancy it and just move out a couple of months down the line.

All bills are normally on top. The rent is just the rent and you are then responsible for: council tax, water, electricity, gas, tv license, contents insurance (not buildings).
Watch out if it's a brand new property - you might get to pick up the £125 BT connection charge for a phone line

zebulon

For you:

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/showthread.html?t=937335

One_Fine_Day_2

Thank you all for the words of wisdom, and for that link - I'm feeling far more confident about the whole thing and your help is appreciated.

neverdespairgirl

In our flat, our rent includes the water. We pay council tax, electricity, and gas.