Step 1: Find Your Perfect Home

The first exciting step is to explore the properties we have available! Think about what you need in a home:

• How many bedrooms do you need?
• What areas are you interested in?
• What's your budget for rent?
• Do you have any specific requirements, like a garden or being close to public transport?

Once you find a property that catches your eye, you can arrange a viewing with our friendly team. This is your chance to see the property in person and ask any questions you might have.

Step 2: The Holding Deposit

Once you've found a property you love and wish to apply for, we will ask for a holding deposit. This is usually equal to one week's rent for the property.

This deposit shows your commitment to the property and means we will take it off the market while we start your application process. It will then go towards your first month's rent if your application is successful.

Important things to know about the holding deposit:

• If you decide not to go ahead with the property after paying the holding deposit, it may not be returned to you.
• If the landlord decides not to rent the property to you (for reasons not related to your application information), your holding deposit will be returned.
• If you provide misleading or dishonest information during your application, your holding deposit may be kept.

Step 3: Referencing & Checks

After paying the holding deposit, we'll start the referencing process. This helps us make sure you're a suitable tenant for the property. We aim to complete this within 3 to 5 working days, but it can sometimes take a little longer, especially at busy times of the month.

What we'll need from you:

• Completed Application Form: We'll provide this when you show interest in a property.
• Proof of Employment: A copy of your employment contract.
• Proof of Earnings: Your 3 most recent payslips. If you're a student, information on how your studies will be funded.
• Identification: A copy of your passport and any relevant residency cards or visas.
• Bank Statements: Your 3 most recent bank statements to confirm your earnings and show your current rent payments (if applicable).
• Proof of Current Address: A recent utility bill.

Providing all these documents together helps us speed up your application!

Affordability & Credit Checks:

FlatHomes usually looks for applicants to earn at least 2.5 times the annual rent to ensure the property is affordable for you. We use Experian for credit checks. If your credit score isn't quite satisfactory, or if your income doesn't meet the affordability criteria, you might be asked to provide a UK homeowner guarantor or pay some rent in advance.

Step 4: Guarantors (If Needed)

If a guarantor is required for your application, they will also need to provide some information:

• Copy of their Passport.
• Proof of Home Ownership (like property deeds or a mortgage statement from the last 12 months).
• A completed guarantor application form.
• Proof of Address (e.g., a utility bill).

Step 5: Signing Your Contract & Moving In!

Once your application and referencing are successful, we'll prepare your occupation contract (this used to be called a tenancy agreement). We'll go through everything with you to make sure you understand all the terms.

Before you move in, you'll need to pay your first month's rent and your security deposit (usually equal to five weeks' rent). Your security deposit will be protected in a government-approved scheme.

Finally, we'll arrange a time for you to collect your keys and move into your new FlatHomes property! We'll also provide you with a detailed inventory of the property's condition at check-in.

For a full breakdown of any fees involved, please refer to our Contract Holder Fees page:

Any Questions?

We're here to help! If you have any questions at any point during the application process, please don't hesitate to contact our friendly team.