Loading...

Renting Guide

At Osbornes, we’re committed to providing a smooth and transparent rental experience. Whether you're renting for the first time or have rented before, we aim to support you every step of the way. Many of our tenants go on to buy, sell or let with us — and we hope your journey with us will be equally positive.

Registering to Rent

You can view our available rental properties online and register your requirements, but we always recommend a face-to-face chat at our office. By getting to know your needs in more detail, we can better match you to your ideal next home.

Applying for a Property

Once you’ve found a property you’d like to rent, we’ll guide you through the application and referencing process.

Holding Deposit

To secure a property, a holding deposit equivalent to one week's rent is required. This will reserve the property while we carry out references and prepare for the tenancy.

Important: The holding deposit is non-refundable if you withdraw from the application, or if false or misleading information is provided.

Referencing & ID Requirements

All tenants (and any guarantors, where required) must complete a reference application via our referencing partner.

You will need to provide:

  • Photographic ID (e.g. valid passport or driving licence)
  • Two proofs of address:
    • One dated within the last 4 weeks
    • One dated within the last 3–6 months

Accepted documents include:

  • Utility bill
  • Council tax bill
  • Bank statement (for current account)

Tenancy Agreement

Before the tenancy begins, you will be asked to sign a legally binding tenancy agreement that outlines the responsibilities of both landlord and tenant.

We recommend reading this agreement carefully. If you have any questions, consult a solicitor, Citizens Advice Bureau, or visit:

Private renting tenancy agreements

Rent in Advance & Security Deposit

  • One month’s rent in advance is payable before the tenancy begins.
  • A security deposit equivalent to five weeks' rent (or six weeks if annual rent exceeds £50,000) will be held in accordance with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).A security deposit equivalent to five weeks' rent (or six weeks if annual rent exceeds £50,000) will be held in accordance with the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS).

Deposits are registered and protected with the TDS, a government-approved scheme. You’ll receive confirmation and a reference number once your deposit is protected.

For more information, visit www.tenancydepositscheme.com or call 0300 037 1000.

If pets are accepted, an additional amount may be required.

Key Collection

Keys can only be released once:

  • References are complete
  • Tenancy agreement is signed
  • All funds are cleared (rent, deposit)
  • A standing order mandate is set up
  • The inventory check-in has taken place

Inventory & Schedule of Condition

An inventory and condition report will be prepared prior to move-in. This records the contents and condition of the property.

You must:

  • Attend the check-in appointment
  • Carefully review and sign the inventory

This document will be used at the end of your tenancy to assess any damage or dilapidation claims.

Inventory and Schedule of Conditions

Unless stated otherwise in your tenancy agreement, tenants are responsible for all utility bills and council tax.

We will notify providers where possible, but we encourage you to contact:

  • Gas and electricity suppliers
  • Water authority
  • Council tax office
  • Broadband/TV providers (you must set these up yourself)

Questions or Help?

If you have any questions throughout the tenancy, our friendly lettings team are always here to help. Call us on 01252 370707 or visit our office at 38a Camp Road, Farnborough, GU14 6EW.