Please help with rent problem!?

Question

HI

i am a student and am worried bout signing a contract which is asking for three months rent before I have even moved in…at full price, then a deposit and admin charge on top of that. The three months before term date totals bout 600 quid which I simply don’t have. Is this normal/acceptable rent agreement ???

another prob is it’s a mates house and I don’t know how to say I don’t agree without “pulling out” ???

I basically want to move in with other mates , bit of a mess really!

Any first hand experience please?

Answer 1

They can pretty much ask for whatever they want but this does seem excessive.  Still, I don't know your area maybe its not so excessive.  I'd quickly look around and ask what other landlords require.  If it turns out other landlords just require a one months deposit and one months rent on the lease start day (the standard where I am) then just tell your mate that he is asking to much and either he comes down to what others are charging or you will go elsewhere.  Anyhow, this guy may be our friend but it sounds like he's overcharging you and you need to do whats in your best interests.  So find out whats the standard is and tell him to match that or you'll go elsewhere (or just pull out - but I wouldn't overpay, mate or not).

Answer 2

Try and advertise for a place. Dont sign any agreement.

Get a place and put everones name on the agreement.

Answer 3

Look, as far as agreements the owner can determine any conditions he wants.

but, as far as i know, he is not allowed to make you sign a contract saying that you have to move out if you dont pay rent