Applying for a property
Once you have found a suitable property and your offer has been accepted by KEYS or the landlord, we will ask you to pay the equivalent of one month’s rent to secure it. We refer to this as a security payment, which may be retained in full or in part in the circumstances explained below. Please make this payment only if you are 100% sure you wish to proceed and believe you can supply the required references, residential-status evidence and information for the checks.
When payment is received, the property is withdrawn from the active market while references and other required checks are completed, your residential status is confirmed where applicable, and final approval is obtained from KEYS or the landlord.
Your security payment
If you decide not to proceed because you have changed your mind after referencing or administration work has commenced, KEYS may retain all or part of the security payment, taking into account the work undertaken and costs incurred.
If your application is not approved following referencing, residential-status confirmation, credit checks or other required checks, or final approval is not obtained from KEYS or the landlord, the security payment will be refunded in full.
Once all parties have signed the tenancy agreement, the security payment is credited towards your first month’s rent.
Completing your tenancy
The tenancy is not treated as complete until the tenancy agreement has been signed and all applicable conditions have been satisfied. Keys are released only when the agreement is signed, the required documents are complete and all required cleared funds have been received.
What we will need from you
To process your application, we will normally ask for:
- A completed credit check form. Current charges are £15.00 for a local credit check and £20.00 for a UK credit check. We will confirm the applicable charge before instructing the check.
- A valid registration card confirming the residential status required for the property, where applicable.
- Photographic identification, such as a passport or driving licence.
- A current employer reference.
- A current landlord reference. If you were previously a homeowner or are renting for the first time, a professional reference may be accepted. A guarantor may be required in some circumstances.
- A recent utility bill dated within the last three months.
Before moving in
Where applicable, contact the relevant utility and service providers at least three working days before your tenancy starts to arrange accounts or supplies in your name. These may include electricity, gas, water, oil and telecommunications providers.
Tenants are strongly advised to maintain appropriate contents insurance throughout the tenancy. Where pets are permitted, consider cover for accidental damage caused by pets. This is separate from the landlord’s responsibility to insure the residential unit in accordance with Jersey law.
Important information
These terms explain the KEYS registration and application process. They do not replace your tenancy agreement or limit any rights or obligations that apply under Jersey law.
If you have any questions before registering or making a security payment, please contact our team. We will be happy to explain the next steps.
