Finding a Rental Property on the Wirral
Where can I find rental properties on the Wirral?
Most rental properties are advertised through local letting agents and online property portals. Some agents also promote homes directly through their own websites. Search for rental properties in the Wirral on our website. You can also register for new property alerts.
How early should I start looking?
It’s best to start searching around four to six weeks before you want to move, as rental homes on the Wirral can be in high demand.
What should I have ready before viewing properties?
Have identification, proof of income, and references ready so you can apply quickly if you find a suitable property.
How quickly do I need to decide?
In popular areas, properties can be let quickly, so it’s often best to apply shortly after viewing.
Do I have to pay anything to apply?
Viewings and applications are free. A holding deposit may be requested once an offer is accepted and is usually deducted from move-in costs.
What areas do you have rental properties in?
Which areas of the Wirral do you cover?
We specialise exclusively in rental properties across all areas of the Wirral, from coastal locations to town centres and residential neighbourhoods.
Which Wirral areas do you regularly have properties in?
We have rental homes in many parts of the Wirral, including:
Do you cover smaller villages and neighbourhoods as well?
Yes. Alongside the main towns, we also cover a wide range of villages and local areas across the Wirral.
You can view a full list of the locations we cover.
Referencing, paperwork and agreements
What documents are needed for tenant referencing?
Most Wirral landlords or letting agents will ask for photo identification, right to rent documents, proof of income, recent bank statements, and references from a previous landlord or employer.
What checks are carried out during the referencing process?
Referencing usually includes identity verification, right to rent checks, credit checks, affordability assessments, and reference confirmation.
What paperwork should I receive before moving in?
Before moving in, tenants should receive a copy of the tenancy agreement, the government’s How to Rent guide, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), and valid gas and electrical safety certificates where required.
What is included in the tenancy agreement?
The tenancy agreement sets out the rent, tenancy length, notice periods, responsibilities of both parties, and any specific conditions relating to the property.
What is a break clause?
A break clause allows either the tenant or the landlord to end the tenancy early, usually after a minimum period, by giving the notice stated in the agreement.
Rent, deposits and payments
What is a tenancy deposit?
A tenancy deposit is money paid at the start of the tenancy to cover potential damage, unpaid rent, or breaches of the tenancy agreement.
What happens to my deposit once it’s paid?
Your deposit must be protected in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days, and you must receive written confirmation.
How much deposit can be charged?
For most private rentals, deposits are capped at five weeks’ rent.
When is rent due, and how should it be paid?
Rent is usually paid monthly in advance by standing order, unless otherwise stated in the tenancy agreement.
Can my rent be increased during the tenancy?
Rent can only be increased if the tenancy agreement allows it or if the tenancy becomes periodic and the correct notice is served. Any increase should reflect local market conditions.
What happens if I am late paying the rent?
Late rent payments may result in reminders and further action if arrears continue, in line with the tenancy agreement.
Moving in and living in the property
Who is responsible for setting up utility accounts when I move in?
Tenants are generally responsible for notifying gas, electricity, water, broadband, and TV providers when moving into a rental property.
Who pays the council tax on a rented property?
In most private rentals, the tenant is responsible for paying council tax directly to Wirral Council.
Who pays for the TV licence?
If you watch or stream live television or use BBC iPlayer, you will need a TV licence for the property.
Do I need my own insurance?
Tenant contents insurance is not legally required, but it is strongly recommended to protect personal belongings and provide liability cover.
Can I decorate or make changes to the property?
Most tenancy agreements require landlord permission before decorating, drilling, or making alterations to the property.
Can I have pets in a rented property?
Whether pets are allowed depends on the tenancy agreement and landlord consent. Some landlords allow pets, subject to written approval.
What are my responsibilities as a tenant?
Tenants are responsible for paying rent on time, keeping the property reasonably clean and tidy, reporting issues promptly, and using the property in a reasonable manner.
Repairs, access and safety
How do I report repairs?
Repairs should be reported to the landlord or managing agent using the contact details provided at the start of the tenancy.
Who is responsible for repairs and maintenance?
Landlords are responsible for the property’s structure, heating, hot water, and safety systems. Tenants are responsible for day-to-day upkeep.
Who is responsible for garden maintenance?
Garden responsibilities depend on the tenancy agreement. Tenants are often expected to carry out basic upkeep, while landlords handle major works.
Can the landlord enter the property?
Landlords must usually give at least 24 hours’ notice and obtain the tenant’s permission before entering, except in an emergency.
What should I do if there is an emergency repair?
Emergency contact details should be provided at the start of the tenancy. If there is an immediate risk to safety or the property, the emergency contact should be used.
Moving out and the end of the tenancy
How much notice do I need to give to move out?
Notice periods depend on the tenancy agreement, but are commonly one month for periodic tenancies.
Can I end my tenancy early?
A tenancy can usually only be ended early if there is a break clause or if the landlord agrees in writing.
What happens if the landlord sells the property?
If the property is sold, the tenancy usually continues under the new owner on the same terms unless proper notice is served.
What happens to my deposit after I move out?
After a final inspection, the deposit is returned minus any agreed deductions for damage, cleaning, or unpaid rent.
What if I disagree with deposit deductions?
Tenants can raise a dispute through the deposit protection scheme’s free dispute resolution service.
What counts as fair wear and tear?
Fair wear and tear refers to normal deterioration from everyday use, such as worn carpets or faded paint, rather than damage caused by neglect.
Do I need to arrange professional cleaning when I move out?
You are expected to return the property in the same condition as at the start of the tenancy, allowing for fair wear and tear.
What should I do if I lose my keys?
Lost keys should be reported to the landlord or managing agent as soon as possible. Replacement costs are usually the tenant’s responsibility.
