The following information has been especially compiled for tenants.
If you would like any further advice, please contact one of the agencies listed in the section "Useful contact numbers for tenants"
There should be no signs of dampness such as wet patches on the walls, usually found low down on outside walls. Black mould is usually a sign of poor heating, ventilation or insulation and is found on kitchens, bathrooms and sometimes bedrooms...
There are ways to make sure that your new home is one of high standards. The best way is to pick a property that is included in the Accreditation Scheme...
From 6th April 2007 when you pay a bond (also known as deposit) for an assured short hold tenancy the landlord or Letting Agent must protect your bond through a Government-backed tenancy deposit scheme...
Your landlord will provide you with a Tenancy Agreement when you agree to rent their property. A Tenancy Agreement is an agreement between landlord and tenant where, in return for rent, you can live in their property as your home...
An inventory is a list of all the items at the property noting the condition of all the furniture, fixtures, fittings and effects which are to be left at the property for the duration of the tenancy and for the tenant's responsibility and safekeeping...
Check the property thoroughly before signing the tenancy agreement - remember you are signing a legal document for a minimum of a six month period...
Harassment is when a landlords acts unlawfully to make a tenant want to leave their tenancy or not want to take up any of their rights...
The house you are going to be moving into is not just a "property" it is probably going to be your home for many months, maybe years...
Gateshead Private Landlords Association Telephone 0191 433 2893...