Register once with Thompson Estates and tell us:

• Your budget
• Ideal move-in date
• Bedrooms / location / must-haves

We’ll send you suitable homes (often before they hit the portals) by email, WhatsApp or phone – whichever works for you.

Before viewing, be clear on what you can comfortably afford. As a guide, many referencing providers look for:

• Household income of around 2.5–3x the annual rent, or
• A suitable guarantor if income/credit doesn’t meet criteria.

We’ll always be upfront with you about affordability so nobody wastes time.

• Flexible viewing slots where possible (including evenings/occasional weekends).
• We’ll give you honest answers about the property, area, parking, transport, schools and running costs.
• If you’re seriously interested, tell us quickly – good homes in Tameside go fast.

Tip: Come prepared with ID and an idea of your move-in date so we can move quickly if you like it.

If you’d like to proceed:

1. Offer form / note of interest
   • Proposed rent
   • Target move-in date
   • Length of tenancy
   • Any conditions (pets, furniture, etc.)

2. Holding deposit

1. • Typically up to one week’s rent, deducted from your first month’s rent or tenancy deposit if you proceed.
   • Fully compliant with Tenant Fees Act rules.

3. Pre-approval

1. • We’ll confirm with the landlord and then start references.

We’ll tell you clearly what’s needed and the exact timelines at this stage.

We usually use a professional referencing provider. Expect:

• ID and Right to Rent checks (passport/visa etc.)
• Credit check
• Employment / income verification or accountant reference
• Previous landlord reference (if applicable)
• Guarantor checks (if required)

We’ll guide you through each step and keep you updated—no chasing in the dark.

Once references are approved:

• We’ll issue your AST (Assured Shorthold Tenancy) agreement electronically.
• You’ll receive:
  • Tenancy agreement
  • Deposit prescribed information
  • “How to Rent” guide
  • EPC
  • Gas safety (if applicable)
  • Electrical report (EICR)
  • Any relevant compliance certificates.

You pay:

• First month’s rent
• Tenancy deposit (capped within legal limits), registered in an approved scheme.

Nothing is left vague. You’ll know exactly what you’re signing and paying.

On or before key handover:

• Professional inventory / schedule of condition (for managed properties).
• Meter readings recorded.
• Keys issued and contacts confirmed (who to call for what).

We’ll explain how to report repairs and what’s expected from both sides during the tenancy.

We’re here to keep things straightforward:

Repairs & maintenance

• For fully managed properties, report issues via our dedicated team through email / phone.
• For let-only properties, we’ll direct you to the landlord’s contact details.
• Emergencies (e.g. major leak, no heating in winter, unsafe electrics): clear 24/7 guidance on who to contact.

Inspections

• Periodic visits (with notice) to check everything’s in good order and to flag any issues early.

Rent payments

• Paid as per your tenancy agreement.
• Tell us early if there’s ever a problem – ignoring it helps nobody.

We’ll expect you to:

• Pay rent in full and on time.
• Look after the property as if it were your own.
• Report repairs promptly.
• Ventilate, heat and use the home sensibly to avoid avoidable damage/condensation.
• Respect neighbours and any building/estate rules.
• Not sub-let or make major changes without written consent.

In return, you can expect us (and your landlord) to:

• Carry out legal safety checks.
• Deal with genuine repairs in a reasonable timeframe.
• Treat you fairly, professionally and with respect.

When you’re approaching the end of your fixed term:

• We’ll discuss options: renew, roll periodic, or serve notice (in line with your agreement and current legislation).
• If you’re leaving:
  • We’ll explain what we look for at check-out.
  • Compare check-in and check-out reports fairly.
  • Handle your deposit return via the registered scheme, with transparent explanations for any proposed deductions.

If you’re staying:

• We’ll confirm new terms in writing and keep things smooth.

• Local to Tameside – we genuinely know the area, streets and landlords.
• Compliance-first – everything done properly: deposit protection, legal docs, safety checks.
• No-nonsense communication – clear expectations, quick responses, no hidden fees.
• Supportive approach – we see tenants as long-term partners, not problems.