Beware the pitfalls of renting for the first time

Here are eleven tips for first time tenants. 

For many students, college is the first time they will be living away from home.

Here is some advice for first-time renters as they prepare to leave the nest

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• Scams: Be cautious. If it seems too good to be true then it probably is. Never hand over keys until you have met the landlord first and have viewed the property. One common scam encourages would-be renters to transfer money via bank or wire service, on the premise that the keys will then be sent to them. More often than not this is a scam.
• Do not rush in: You might feel pressured to take the first place you see. Don’t be. Take your time to view the property and make sure it meets all your needs. At the viewing, take a look around before making a decision. You should also take the time to check that all electrical and gas appliances supplied as part of the letting are in good working order.
• Safety: You should make sure that the property meets basic minimum standards to be safe. Information on these standards can be found on Threshold.ie.
• Take photographs: Pull out your phone and take some pictures and videos to record the condition of the property, particularly any existing damage such as cigarette burns, stains, or cracked windows. This will avoid any confusion at the end of the lease.
• Deposits: Normally you will have to pay a deposit and rent in advance. You should avoid paying in cash and always insist on getting a receipt. Make sure you get a rent book and get all payments recorded, even if you are paying through a standing order.
• Contract: Before you sign a contract or a lease, you should take the time to read it through carefully. If you are asked to sign a fixed-term contract or lease, ensure that you read it thoroughly and can fulfil all its terms and conditions. If necessary, get advice and you should always have a copy of your lease and/or rent book.
• Know your landlord: Before you move in, make sure you have the contact details for the landlord and their agent. This way, you know who to contact if there is a problem during your tenancy.
• Contents insurance: The landlord’s insurance will not cover your property. You will have to take out contents insurance to protect your personal possessions.
• The RTB: Landlords, including housing associations and those who let out student-specific accommodation, must register residential tenancies with the Residential Tenancies Board (RTB). If you have any problems during your tenancy you may be able to refer a dispute to the RTB.
• Equality: While renting private accommodation, you are covered by equality legislation. If you feel that you have been discriminated against in this way you may be able to take further action. You can contact Threshold by calling 1800 454 454.
• Check the rents: Do not be tricked into overpaying for a property. Ask around and find out whether what the landlord is asking is in line with what is being paid for similar properties in the area.