FAQ

How do I rent a property from Ilchester Estates?

Anyone can apply to rent a property from Ilchester Estates. By clicking on the Residential and Commercial tabs at the top of this page you will be taken to the details of properties currently available to let on the Estate.

If you cannot find what you are looking for please submit an enquiry by clicking on the enquiry tab. This information will be kept on file and as and when a suitable property becomes available, you will be sent a copy of the letting particulars.

What would be the terms of my tenancy?

If you are applying to rent a residential property this would be on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy for a minimum term of six months.

For a commercial property it very much depends on the premises, nature of the business and the intended duration of occupation. The type of agreement can range from short term licences to 10 year commercial leases. Please contact the Estate Office to discuss your requirements.

How long can I rent a property from the Estate?

Ilchester Estates are keen to let properties to long term tenants so providing the rent is paid on time and the property is well looked after, the length of the tenancy is often decided by the tenant.

Am I allowed to keep pets at the property?

This is assessed on a property by property basis rather than a blanket policy. The majority of our properties do allow pets and in these cases we request a higher deposit equivalent to 1.5 months’ rent. It is also the tenants responsibility to rectify any damage to the property caused by pets.

As an Estate tenant can I walk anywhere on the Estate?

Unfortunately not. The Estate operates an active farm business ranging from arable production to sheep and dairy units. There are however multiple public footpaths and bridleways located across the Estate.

How do I pay my rent?

All rental payments are to be made by Standing Order, a mandate for which will be supplied on the signing of your tenancy agreement for you to complete and submit to your bank.

How much will I have to pay upfront?

In the event of an offer of any property, the deposit together with the first month’s rent in advance and an administration fee of £250 including VAT are payable upon signature of the tenancy agreement.

How much do I have to pay as a deposit?

The amount held as a deposit is equivalent to one months’ rent if you don’t have any pets or one and a half’s months’ rent if you intend on keeping pets.

Where is my deposit held?

Your deposit will be held by the Estate and protected in the Tenancy Deposit Scheme which is administered by The Dispute Service.

Please click on the link to view the Tenancy Deposit Scheme’s ‘Information for Tenants’ Tenancy Deposit Scheme – Information for Tenants

What is involved during the referencing process?

When you apply to rent a property from Ilchester Estates you will be required to complete two forms. The first is a Tenant Application Form produced by Leaseguard who undertake a credit check on the Estates behalf. At the same time Ilchester Estates will request details of three referees to provide a personal, financial and landlord’s reference.

Will I have to undergo a credit check?

Yes. All applicants will need to have a credit check before any tenancy can be offered.

How often will my rent be reviewed?

Generally rents are reviewed in line with the open market value every two years.

Who is responsible for the maintenance of my property?

This varies depending on the nature of your tenancy agreement. For residential lettings on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement the tenant is required to maintain the property in the same condition as that at the commencement of the tenancy. The Landlord will keep in repair the structure and exterior of the premises and will keep in proper working order the installations for the supply of water, gas, electricity and sanitation.

For commercial properties this varies depending on the type of agreement and the length of term. Please contact the Estate Office with any specific queries.

What happens when I get to the end of the fixed term of my tenancy?

For residential tenancies, providing both parties are happy we can re-negotiate a further fixed term or agree to let the tenancy continue month by month as a Statutory Periodic Tenancy.

For commercial leases, the terms of a further fixed term are negotiated.

How much notice do I have to serve if I want to leave my property?

During the fixed term of a residential tenancy, neither party can bring the tenancy to an end. Once a Statutory Periodic Tenancy, the tenancy can be terminated by the tenant serving the landlord with one full months written notice.

For commercial leases, this very much depends on the terms of the agreement. Please contact the Estate Office to discuss any specific queries.