What is the deposit amount required to rent a property?
This is usually the equivalent of five weeks rent. A holding deposit is usually the equivalent of one week’s rent
Can the deposit be refunded to me if I decide not to proceed with the tenancy, after paying the deposit?
The Holding and/or Security Deposit will be refunded in full if;
- The Landlord decides not to go ahead with the Tenancy
Please Note: This would only likely happen if the referencing process is unsuccessful (e.g., due to affordability concerns, employer or previous Landlord checks / references) or there are delays confirming a start date / signing the Tenancy Agreement - You decide not to proceed before the Tenancy Agreement has been signed
If you decide not to proceed after you have signed the Tenancy Agreement and committed to the Tenancy, the deposit will be used as rent calculated on a pro rata daily rent basis from the agreed start date until a new suitable tenancy is secured and started, or until all of the deposit has been used.
Can I keep pets at the property?
Request to keep pets will be considered depending on whether it is reasonable for the type of property (and permitted by a Superior Lease if relevant). Please enquire with reference to the property you are interested in.
Does the monthly rental price include utilities?
No – once you have completed your tenancy agreement you will need to register with utility providers of your choice for gas, electricity, water, council tax and any other utilities that you require at the property and pay for those services separately. We will provide you with all necessary meter readings at the time of your check in.
How long does it take to complete the application process?
The initial credit reference, affordability, employers and previous landlord checks can be completed within 24/48 hours if all the required information is correctly provided. Once the application is approved in principle, we will require further information e.g. to complete Right to Rent Checks. The whole process usually takes 4 to 5 days from start to finish. This relies on prompt responses from your referees and the property you are applying for is vacant. In exceptional cases we have moved tenants into their new home in less than 4 days.
What is the minimum length of the Tenancy Agreement?
From 1st May 2026, all tenancies will be Assured Periodic Tenancies (that continue on a month-by-month basis)
How much notice do I have to give when I want to leave my rental property?
From 1st May 2026, you will need to give two month’s written notice, to coincide with the rent payment date, of your intention to vacate your property.
What happens if I have a maintenance issue at the property?
You will only need to make one call to Cookes Property Management and we will deal with any maintenance issues that you may have.
Do I need to have an active contents insurance policy in place?
No, but we do strongly recommend that you have adequate insurance cover for your personal contents and also pay for any accidental damage to the landlord’s furniture (if applicable), fixtures and fittings in the property. These products are known as Tenants Contents Insurance and Tenants Liability Insurance.