The Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA) is supporting the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) ‘How to rent’ guide, launched today.

The guide provides a checklist for people who are looking for a house or flat to rent, offering guidance through every step of the lettings process.

ARLA says it fully supports the government’s initiative to ease the process of renting to tenants, and sees anything which can support people in the rental market as a step in the right direction. The guide outlines the rights and responsibilities you have as a tenant, and helps you to understand the questions to ask to create and maintain a positive relationship with your landlord or letting agent.

When choosing a property, either direct from the landlord or through a letting agent, a tenant should ensure the agent or landlord is accredited by The Association of Residential Lettings Agents (ARLA), as recommended by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG) ‘How to rent’ guide.

Susan Fitz-Gibbon, president of ARLA, said: “Embarking on renting a property can often be a daunting time for people, with would be tenants sometimes expected to make a quick decision, provide extensive information and sign numerous documents before their dream home is snapped up by someone else.

“The DCLG guide will hopefully make the rental process smoother for tenants and offers simple, straightforward guidance for people who are looking to rent, empowering them to make informed decisions. Before any potential tenant signs on the dotted line it’s vital they ensure their lettings agent is accredited through a professional body, such as ARLA.

“ARLA accreditation means your landlord has a responsibility to tell you upfront what fees and costs they will charge you,complaints from both sides will be dealt with fairly and effectively, and you have the peace of mind of knowing your money is protected should you have any dispute with your landlord.”