Shorthold Leaseholders
Assured Shorthold Tenancies are the most common type of residential tenancy agreement and will usually be for a term of 12 months. The main points are outlined below, but please consult your own tenancy agreement for specifics and take advice when necessary.
What To Do In An Emergency.
For advice on what to do in the event of an emergency please refer to the guidance here.
What To Do If You Need Maintenance Or Repair Work.
The Estate will be responsible for certain maintenance and repairs to your property and the specifics will depend upon the tenancy you have.
In the first instance it's a good idea to check your tenancy agreement before contacting us. This will provide you with the particular information for your property.
Please report maintenance and repair issues arising at your flat to the property manager responsible for your building. In the event that you have an emergency repair request outside of office hours you should contact our nominated contractors PACE (UK) Ltd.*
For further advice on what to do in the event that maintenance work is required please refer to the guidance here.
What Happens When Your Tenancy Is Due To Expire?
We will contact you three months prior to the expiry of your term to commence discussions regarding the possible renewal of your tenancy. Please feel free to contact your property manager at any time to discuss your requirements.
Moving In And Out.
At the outset a note is made on the condition of the property and a list (inventory) of its contents will be drawn up for your approval before you move in. Your property will have a 'Resident's Pack' to welcome you to your new home. It will contain all the manuals and guidance you need to settle in.
You will be contacted before you are due to vacate to arrange a convenient time for your check-out. We ask all our tenants to arrange a professional clean of the property before they leave. Should you wish, we can put you in touch with a suitable company. An independent check-out clerk will go through a check-out list with you, reviewing the inventory created at the start of your occupancy and agreeing any repairs or replacements needed. Provided there is no damage to the property, we aim to release your deposit as soon as possible, ideally within 10 days. The Bedford Estates subscribe to ‘My Deposits’ Tenancy Deposit Scheme.
Long Leaseholders
This section refers to leases granted originally for a term of more than 21 years, which can feature: a low rent (called 'ground rent'); and where the lessee is required to pay a service charge as a contribution to the repair, maintenance and management of the block.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for your general guidance. Regulation surrounding lease extensions is complex and therefore you should appoint a lawyer and a valuer to act on your behalf.
How To Make An Insurance Claim?
In the first instance, please contact the property manager responsible for your building.
It is important to note that no cover is provided for your personal contents or possessions. This must be separately arranged by the occupier.
For further information, please refer to The Bedford Estates Insurance Guide
What To Do If You Would Like To Extend Your Lease?
The Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993 (as amended) introduced the right for qualifying leaseholders of flats to acquire a 90 year lease extension on payment of a premium. The basic criteria for qualification are that your original lease should be a long lease at a low rent and that you should have been the leaseholder for at least 2 years at the time of your application for an extension. You should consult your solicitor for full advice as to whether you qualify - the Estate cannot advise you on this.
The Estates Requirements Should You Decide To Alter Your Property.
Most leases prohibit structural alterations and may permit other works with landlord’s consent. Many of the Estate’s buildings are listed and you may therefore need listed building consent and/or planning consent. We recommend that you consult the Estate’s Building Department about any proposed alterations early on in the process. Our experience of dealing with these buildings may be helpful and early discussion with us could save you abortive time and expense.
Depending on the nature and extent of works proposed, the Estate’s consent (if granted) may be by exchange of letters or by formal licence. Provisions for reinstatement at the end of your lease may be included.