Viewing a property

• When you view a home we will show you around and tell you about the fixtures, fittings and services
• We will make sure your home is clean and safe and that we have done any repairs to make sure it meets our standard for an empty home
• We will normally ask you to move in within one week.

Moving in

• We will meet with you to explain your tenancy agreement to you before you sign it, and give you a copy. We will not ask you to sign it until you are sure you understand it
• We will explain your rights and responsibilities as a tenant, and what you can expect from us as the housing management organisation
• We will tell you the amount of rent and service charge payable and explain when and how to pay
• We will tell you about the other services we offer that can help you settle into your home
• We will explain how to connect utilities like gas, electricity, water and telephone
• If you have particular needs or requirements that you would like us to know about, we will discuss these and agree with you how we can best support you
• We will give you a copy of the tenants' handbook which gives important information about us, and the services we offer
• We will give you three sets of keys to the property and three security fobs if your building has security doors if required
• We will give you a welcome pack that will contain essential items that you may need
• We will assess your eligibility for Housing Benefit and help you to complete relevant application forms.

Settling in

• We will visit all new tenants within six weeks of moving into a new home to make sure you have no problems with your tenancy and to support you if you need it
• We ask a sample of new tenants for their views as a new residents - this helps us know how we are doing and to improve our service in the future
• We will visit you again when you have lived in the property for nine months.

Secure tenancies

During the first year, you will normally have a probationary tenancy, which we will review from time to time. Your tenancy may be at risk if you, the people you live with or your visitors cause any anti-social behaviour or if you have rent arrears.

To help us deliver a great service, you can help us by:

• Taking time to ready our information and contact us at any time with queries
• Let us know in your first few months if we have not met our lettable standard, or if you think repairs are needed
• Contact us if you have any queries about your financial responsibilities - we can help you manage your finances and explain any extra benefits you might be able to apply for. We can also refer you to independent agencies who can advise you
• Let us know if any of your circumstances change, so we can adjust our records, or try to help. For example, family members moving in or out, of your property for any length of time.