How much is the first payment? We require payment equal to two month’s rent to cover the first month’s rent and the bond. The bond is normally equivalent to one month’s rent, and is refundable at the end of the tenancy if the property is left in the same condition as it was at the beginning of the tenancy, subject of course to fair wear and tear. What do you do with the bond? The bond is registered with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme, and we provide you with an insurance policy so you know that you are fully protected. How long is the tenancy agreement? The rental agreement is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy, and is normally for an initial fixed period of six or twelve months depending on your requirements. After the initial period, the tenancy continues on a month to month basis, unless you decide to opt for another guaranteed fixed term by signing a new agreement. Contrary to the popular misconception, mainly spread by agents eager to make more commission from renewals, your tenancy never “expires” and there is no necessity to enter into a new agreement. If you are happy to continue on a monthly basis after the initial period, then so are we. If you want the comfort of another fixed term, then that’s fine too and any subsequent agreements are free of charge. What do you need to reserve a property? After you have viewed the property, if you wish to go ahead you can reserve an apartment for a small holding deposit of about £150.00 pending the processing of your application. The holding deposit is of course deducted from the first payment. What is your policy on pets? We have a strict policy of no cats or dogs. Within reason, small caged animals, birds and fish are not a problem, subject to approval. Can I hang pictures on the wall, or put up shelves or other fittings in my apartment? Yes, no problem. We want you to make the property your home, so unlike other landlords and agents, we encourage you to do so, and we do not raise petty complaints or make deposit deductions for minor holes in walls that can easily be repaired with a bit of Polyfilla. Any structural alterations are of course forbidden. Can I decorate my apartment? Not initially. We try to ensure that the decoration in all apartments is clean, bright and neutral in colour. After the first six months, if you wish to decorate in your own style, we will consider your request, provided that you are prepared to commit yourself for a further term, and agree to restore the original colour scheme if you decide to leave. Do I need insurance? Although as a tenant, you do not require buildings insurance, it's still important to protect the contents of your home including your own furniture and white goods, not to mention your personal items of both financial and sentimental value. How much is Council Tax? All the apartments are in Band A for Council Tax purposes. For up to date information please visit Dudley Council. Don’t forget that you get a 25% reduction for single occupancy How much are the bills? The apartments are extremely well insulated, which means low winter fuel bills. As an added bonus it also means that the properties stay cool in summer. The average apartment at Wassell Court is rated at 83 in band B,on the EPC (click here for more information) whereas the average flat in this sector is in band E. The heating bills in a flat E property of similar size can be more than four times as much as you would pay at Wassell Court. You should factor this in when comparing other properties. You are free to choose your own utility supplier. All the apartments are on water meters so you only pay for the water that you actually use. What are your underwriting requirements? You need to be in full time employment, or established self employment and hold a bank account to pay the rent by standing order. We require employer’s references as well as a credit check and references from your previous landlord What are the viewing arrangements? Apartments at Wassell Court invariably are snapped up when they become available. To register your interest or to arrange a viewing, please click on this link: Viewing Request

Frequently Asked Questions