Homes to rent

Welcome to Flagship Private Lettings. We manage approximately 180 properties - these properties are let at open market rents to the general public.

To view details of the properties we currently have available to rent, view our link on Rightmove: Flagship Private Lettings.

Frequently asked questions about Flagship Private Lettings

How do I apply for a private lettings property?

Once you have found a property you are interested in please contact us on: privatelettings@flagship-housing.co.uk or telephone 01638 582682 or Flagship Response on 0808 168 4555.
We will then contact you to arrange a viewing.

If you wish to proceed, a full application form will need to completed and returned to us, along with an administration fee of £75 plus VAT.

If you intend to ‘share’ the property with another adult they will also need to complete an application form.

What information do you need about me?

We require the following information about you to help us assess your application:

Your last three months' bank statements
A utility bill for the place where you currently live
Certified photo identity, for example your passport or a photocard driving licence
Suitable guarantor

How much money do I have to pay initially?

As well as the administration fee we’ll need a deposit equivalent to one month’s rent plus one full month’s rent in advance. You’ll need these with you when we complete your tenancy agreement sign-up. Under certain circumstances, your local authority may be able to help you with your deposit under a Rent Deposit scheme. Please contact the local authority for the area in which you wish to rent to check if they operate this scheme.

Why do I have to pay a deposit?

Charging a deposit ensures that the property will be kept in good condition. If repairs are needed at the end of the tenancy due to any damage you might have caused to the property, then these may be paid for from your deposit. Any rent arrears can also be charged.

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Is my deposit safe?

Your deposit will be registered with a Tenancy Deposit Scheme. This means that any disputes about repayment at the end of your tenancy are dealt with by an independent third party. There are also strict timescales for the return of your deposit. We’ll give you full details of the scheme that we use when you sign your tenancy agreement.

What else do I have to pay for?

You are responsible for paying the utility bills such as gas, electricity, water, telephone, TV licence and Council Tax.

When and how do I pay my rent?

Your rent is payable monthly in advance - that’s why the first month’s rent must be paid before when you complete your tenancy agreement sign-up. We will require subsequent months to be paid by Direct Debit.

Please feel free to talk to us if you are experiencing problems paying your rent. We can give you advice on budgeting and benefits. Alternatively, your local Citizens Advice Bureau will be happy to advise you.

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Do you accept tenants receiving Housing Benefit?

Depending on the property, Housing Benefit applicants may be considered. If you receive Housing Benefit, one way to improve your chances of securing a tenancy would be to pay the deposit and one month’s rent in advance. Please feel free to get in touch with us so that we can talk to you about your own personal circumstances and the property you’re interested in.

When can I see the property?

We can arrange for you to view the property, normally during office hours Monday to Friday. Please call us so that we can arrange this for you.

How long does it all take?

From the date that we receive your application, documentation and fee, we can usually sign you up at your new home within a few days. All of this is dependent upon when the property becomes vacant.

When do I get the keys?

We will arrange a personal hand-over at the property by a member of the Flagship Private Lettings team. This allows you to ask any questions or raise concerns you might have.

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How long can I stay?

The tenancy, which is usually for a fixed term of six months, is referred to as an assured shorthold tenancy agreement. If we do not give you notice at the end of the fixed term, you may stay on the basis of a Statutory Periodic Tenancy. This means that you have a month-to-month tenancy and must give us one month’s written notice if you wish to leave. If you do not give a full month's notice you will risk forfeiting your deposit. We must always give you two months' notice to vacate.

Can I decorate my property?

We have no objections to you painting or decorating your home. However, we do reserve the right to approve alternative paint colours/wallpaper and you will need our written permission for this before you begin redecorating your home.

What are the rules regarding pets, smokers, etc?

Any conditions relating to pets and smoking will be shown on the property details page. Pets are often accepted subject to an additional deposit payment of £100 but generally we try to be as flexible as possible and keep restrictions to a minimum. Some of our properties are not suitable for larger pets, such as dogs, due to property type, size and location.

What do I need to do before I leave the property?

Below is a list of suggestions to help ensure deductions are not made from your deposit when you leave your home:

Check the condition of the property against your copy of the inventory taken at the time of sign-up
Touch up paint chips, fill holes in walls and re-touch. Re-paint or paper walls where necessary
Ensure all personal property and rubbish is removed from the property prior to the final inspection
Vacuum carpets and have them cleaned where necessary
Make sure light switches, sockets, ceiling roses and bulb holders do not have paint on them
Let all the utility suppliers (electricity, gas, water, Council Tax and telephone) know that you are leaving the property and ensure all bills are paid in full.
Clean the property thoroughly prior to key handover.

Your deposit will be returned to you as soon as we are satisfied that there are no outstanding rent arrears or other costs that are your responsibility.

Last updated: 10 August 2012