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LETTING INFORMATION AND FAQ

How do I set up a viewing of a property?

You can either phone us on 0114 2726006, mail enquiries@mafproperties.co.uk or call into our office. Find out days and times when all your group are all available and we will arrange an appointment for your group to view. One of the MAF team will meet you at our office take you to the property, show you around and answer any questions you may have. We ask that you do not call at the property to request a viewing as we respect the privacy of our tenants, we like to conduct our viewings in a professional manner and ensure our existing tenants have had adequate notice that we are coming.

We've seen a house we really like - how do we go about signing for it?

You can come into our office and have a look through the tenancy agreement. When you are happy you can sign up on the spot, or make an appointment to suit you. Until we have a signed tenancy agreement and a deposit we will continue with viewings at the property and treat the property as still available to let.

What is the agreement that we sign?

The agreement will be an "Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement" working with the dates from The University of Sheffield to accommodate and coincide with the academic year. Each property is normally let to a group on a joint tenancy agreement.

How much is the deposit?

We require a deposit for £200.00 per person, payable by cheque or cash which will be registered with a tenancy deposit scheme. MAF Properties currently use www.mydeposits.co.uk to protect your deposits. This is a requirement by law which is why we request the deposit at the time of signing.

Is there an Administration Fee?

MAF Properties charge a non-refundable administration fee per person of £50.

How do we pay the rent?

For all properties we require three equal post dated rental cheques calculated by multiplying the weekly rent per person x 52 (weeks in the year) and dividing by 3 (number of rental cheques) and dated 14 June 2010, 01 October 2010, 20 January 2011. These cheques will not be cashed until the specified dates.

Are Utility Bills included in the rent?

No, Utility bills are not included in the rental price. As tenants, you are responsible for the payment of Gas, Electricity and Water. You will need to take meter readings when you move in and then register all utilities in your names with the companies. We generally advise that tenants should budget approx £5.00 per person per week for their bills approximate guidelines are provided on the EPC certificate for each property. You will also be responsible for the cost of any Telephone and Internet (unless otherwise stated) for the property.

What if we want to renew our contract for a further year?

We always give our current tenants first refusal on any property. We will write to you in October/November asking you if you wish to stay on for another year. If you do wish to stay on, please get in touch ASAP so we can reserve the property for you. If you require a smaller or larger property to accommodate you group we will make every effort to meet your needs.

What happens if there are any problems with my property once I have moved in?

Each property has its own house manual with operating instructions for each appliance plus lots useful information including fire safety etc and contact details for our maintenance team out of hours. During office hours you can call us or email us with your problem and we will arrange for maintenance to call at your property.

Do we need to pay Council Tax?

No, as full time students you will be exempt from Council Tax. You can obtain council tax exemption certificates from your university. However if you have recently left University or are not a full time student you will be required to pay Council Tax. If this is the case please visit http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/council-tax and follow the instructions.

Do the properties have a Gas safety certificate?

Yes all properties have a current Gas Safety Certificate. They are checked annually.

Has the Property got an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)?

Yes. New government regulations mean that, as of October 2008, every property must have an Energy Performance Certificate. They are available to view on request.

Do we need Contents Insurance?

Yes you will need Contents Insurance for your possessions at the property.

Will we need a T.V. License for the property?

Yes you will. On a joint tenancy agreement you will need one license per property. These can be purchased online at www.tvlicensing.co.uk

Do we need a "Parking Permit" for our car?

The Council has recently made the majority of Student Areas into "Permit Only" zones. Our latest understanding is that usually 2 permits can be acquired per property for the year. To check if your property falls into a permit zone please visit Sheffield City Council's website http://www.sheffield.gov.uk/roads-and-transport/parking/permit-parking