Property Lettings and Sales

Lettings 

Wherever possible, the Property Department will let any vacant houses. If you are interested in renting a property from us, please visit the letting agents' website Messrs. Jas Martin & Co for further details and houses currently available for rent.

Once a tenancy has been completed, the Properties Officer becomes the main contact throughout the term of the tenancy.

Period of Tenancy

Our primary function is to provide housing for the clergy, however, we are able to offer vacant properties for renting. Prospective tenants should, therefore, be aware that long tenancies cannot be guaranteed.

Assured Shorthold tenancies are for an initial term of six months. If the property is not required back at the end of the initial term, the tenancy may roll over on a monthly basis.

The tenants are normally one of the first to hear that a property might be required back as a priest will need to look round the property at the interview stage. The Properties Officer will inform the tenant of the suggested date and time for the viewing to take place and the tenants' co-operation will be required in this respect.

Rental Payments

In all cases, rent is required to be paid by standing order. Any queries regarding rental payments should be directed to the Properties Officer immediately. Any arrears in rent payment may result in a Notice to Quit being served. Please ensure that you contact the Properties Officer immediately should you encounter financial difficulties.

Rent Reviews

Rent reviews will be undertaken on tenancies where houses have been let for 2 years, and every 2 years thereafter.

Tenants' Responsibilities

Please refer to your tenancy agreement. 

End of Tenancy Arrangements

When a property is required back, arrangements will be made for the letting agents to carry out a final inspection to assess the condition of the property, with reference to the Inventory and Schedule of Condition (if one was taken at the start of the tenancy). They will ensure that the condition of the property matches the condition when the tenant moved in, including all contents and fittings, as well as overall condition and décor.

Assuming the condition of the property is satisfactory and that the rent has been paid up-to-date, arrangements will be made to return the deposit to the tenant.

They will also read the utility meters at the time of the final inspection and ask for confirmation of the utility suppliers.

Sales

When a property is surplus to requirements, arrangements are made to place the house on the market for sale. To see properties that the Diocese currently has available for sale, please see Messrs. Jas Martin & Co.'s  website.