Register for Property Updates
When you sign up with Bond & Sherwill, you'll receive regular property updates via email, post, and SMS. Our team is here to make the property letting process as stress-free as possible. Whether you're searching for your ideal house or apartment, we'll support you every step of the way.
Viewings
If you find a property you like, you can arrange a viewing at your convenience. Viewings are held between 9 am and 6 pm from Monday to Friday, and between 9 am and 4 pm on Saturdays, with appointments available on Sundays.
We will accompany you to all viewings so we can answer any questions and better understand what you are looking for.
Reserving a Property
Once you find a property you wish to make your home, you can reserve it by paying a holding deposit. If the Landlord declines to grant the tenancy or if you choose not to proceed, the holding deposit will be refunded.
However, if you do not provide complete and accurate information on your application form, the holding deposit will be forfeit. We are also required at this stage to carry out a Right to Rent Check as mandated by UK law. Please ensure you bring your passport or a valid ID to the office.
References
Once you have completed the application form and paid the holding deposit, we will need satisfactory references from your current or previous employer, landlord, and a personal referee. Additionally, a credit check will be performed.
If you have not rented before or you are self- employed, we may also request further proof of income and a bank reference. We might engage an independent company to obtain and evaluate the references.
Lettings Fees (where applicable)
The initial money consists of:
- First month’s rent paid in advance
- Security deposit equivalent to 5 weeks’ rent
- Change of sharer: £50 Inc. VAT
- Change to a tenancy requested by the tenant: £50 Inc VAT
- Early termination (subject to landlord's approval): Fees may apply.
Rents
Rent is usually quoted on a per calendar month (PCM) basis and must be paid in advance on a monthly basis, as specified in the tenancy agreement. Tenants are responsible for paying council tax, water rates, gas, electricity, and telephone/internet charges, unless otherwise stated in the tenancy terms. All rent payments must be made via bank standing order to ensure timely and traceable transactions.
Security Deposit
A security deposit of five weeks' rent will be required. The Tenancy Deposit Protection regulations will safeguard this deposit. You will be informed of the protection scheme used, and details on how to access it and raise disputes will be provided. The deposit is held to cover damage, breakages, or any other liabilities under your Tenancy Agreement. Please note that the deposit cannot be used to cover rent under any circumstances.
Tenant Responsibilities
As a tenant, you are expected to:
- Pay the rent promptly each month.
- Report maintenance issues promptly to Bond & Sherwill.
- Keep the property tidy and well maintained.
- Respect neighbours and adhere to community rules.
- Comply fully with your tenancy agreement.
Maintenance & Repairs
Tenants should promptly report any repairs, faults, or maintenance issues to our office during normal opening hours. This helps us resolve problems quickly and minimise any damage. For emergencies outside of office hours, please follow the emergency contact instructions provided in your tenancy documentation. Keeping us informed supports proper property management and helps maintain a safe, comfortable living environment for everyone tenants.
Energy Performance Certificates (EPC)
An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) is available for all properties and can be provided upon request. The EPC displays the property's energy efficiency rating on a scale from A (most efficient) to G (least efficient), helping you understand estimated energy usage and related costs. In line with UK legislation, a valid EPC is required for all properties being let, and the certificate must have a minimum rating of E unless an exemption applies. We ensure that all properties meet this requirement before a tenancy begins.
Ending the Tenancy & Notice Period
To end your tenancy, you must submit written notice in accordance with the terms outlined in your tenancy agreement. This usually involves providing a minimum notice period (for example, one month for tenants on a rolling contract), although specific terms may differ.
Once notice is received, we will guide you through the next steps, including:
- Organising a final inspection of the property
- Advice on cleaning and maintenance responsibilities
- Confirming the return process for your deposit in accordance with deposit protection regulations.
If the landlord wishes to terminate the tenancy, they are legally obliged to give notice in accordance with current legislation, including appropriate notice periods and valid grounds where applicable.
We are here to assist both tenants and landlords throughout this process to ensure a smooth and fair conclusion to the tenancy.
Safety & Security
All properties managed by Bond & Sherwill comply with current UK safety regulations. As standard, each property is equipped with:
- Smoke alarms installed on every floor suitable for living areas.
- Carbon monoxide detectors in rooms with solid fuel-burning appliances or where legally required.
- Gas safety checks, carried out annually by a registered Gas Safe engineer (where applicable).
- Electrical safety inspections, including EICR certification, to confirm compliance with electrical standards.
We also encourage tenants to test alarms regularly and report any safety concerns promptly. Your wellbeing remains a top priority, and we are committed to providing a safe and secure living environment at all times.
Pets
Pets are permitted in certain properties at the owner's discretion. Please consult with us before submitting your application.
Smoking
All our properties are strictly "no smoking."
Tenant Support & Advice
If you need independent advice or assistance during your tenancy, organisations such as Citizens Advice (www.citizensadvice.org.uk) and Shelter (www.shelter.org.uk) offer valuable guidance.
Tenant Insurance
We strongly recommend all tenants obtain contents insurance to protect their personal belongings. While landlords ensure that the landlord’s policy does not cover the building, it does cover the tenant's possessions. Contents insurance protects you against theft, fire, accidental damage, and other risks during your tenancy.
Living in Coulsdon and the Surrounding Areas
Coulsdon and its neighbouring areas foster a strong community atmosphere, with excellent transport links to Central London by train and bus. You’ll discover plenty of local shops, cafes, parks, and schools, making it ideal for commuters and families alike. Nearby towns such as Purley, Caterham, and Croydon offer additional amenities and leisure options.
