Test Co-Pilot Letter
Dear [Tenant Name],
Welcome to Your New Home!
Thank you for completing your online rental agreement and other necessary forms. We are pleased to confirm that your new tenancy starts today.
Your Tenancy Details:
- Tenancy Reference Number: [xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx]
Keys:
- You will receive two sets of keys for your new home.
- There is a key safe near the front door with the code [XXXX].
- The communal entrance door code is [XXXX]. For safety, please do not share this code with others.
- One key is in the key safe, and the rest are in the kitchen (possibly in a drawer).
- Please remove the keys from the key safe by [Friday, XXXXXX]. Our contractors will remove the key safe afterward. Do not change the code or remove the key safe. If we cannot retrieve it, you may be charged.
Rent Payments:
- Rent is charged weekly on Mondays. It is your responsibility to ensure your rent is paid on time.
- You can pay weekly by card or standing order, or monthly by direct debit.
- Rent is due in advance. For example, you pay on the 1st for the month ahead. Your rent account should not fall into arrears.
Payment Methods:
- Direct Debit: The easiest way to pay. Call 0300 123 4000 or complete the direct debit instruction form on our website.
- Online: Visit our website to pay.
- Phone: Call 0300 123 4000, Option 1, to pay by card.
- Standing Order/Online Banking:
- Babergh District Council: Sort Code 30-98-31, Account 01217347
- Mid Suffolk District Council: Sort Code 30-99-85, Account 00708698
Change of Circumstances:
- Complete a ‘change of circumstances’ with Universal Credit or Housing Benefit on the day your tenancy starts. If unsure, contact your Income Officer or Customer Services on 0300 123 4000.
Difficulty Paying Rent?
- Contact us for advice and support immediately if you find it difficult to pay your rent. Call 0300 123 4000 or visit our website.
Utilities:
- Attached are copies of the safety checks for the electric and gas installations.
- Energy Performance Certificate: [ADD EPC link]
- Take meter readings and contact British Gas to set up your account. You can change suppliers later using websites like Uswitch.com or myutilities.com.
- Asbestos Survey and Leaflet: This leaflet answers any questions you might have.
- Remember to budget for council tax, TV license, cable/internet, and redirect your post.
Contents Insurance:
- We insure the building, but not your belongings. It is essential to invest in contents insurance. Many residents use the Crystal home insurance scheme.
Maintenance & Repairs:
- We aim to provide a safe and comfortable home. If you move, return the property in the same condition.
- Report standard repairs online. For emergency repairs, call 0300 123 4000. After hours, call 0808 168 7794. Some minor repairs are your responsibility, as listed in your tenancy agreement.
Pets:
- Obtain written permission before keeping any animal, bird, or reptile. Permission may be subject to conditions and can be withdrawn if the animal causes a nuisance or is mistreated.
- Permission is usually not granted for dogs (except guide or hearing dogs) or cats in flats or maisonettes.
Tenant Handbook:
- The Handbook contains all the information you need while living in your home. It covers:
- How to stay in touch with us
- Tenant’s rights and complaints process
- Information about tenancy, rent, and repairs
- How to keep your home safe
- How we consider vulnerabilities
- The Handbook is available on our websites:
Feedback:
- We welcome feedback to improve our service for new tenants. Please complete our new tenant survey.
- Tell us if you feel the service could have been better or if a council officer has done something well by completing our online form.
We hope you will be happy in your new home.
With kind regards,
Tenancy Management Team
Babergh & Mid Suffolk District Councils
Tel: 0300 123 4000