Last week's column looked at letting out your property. This week we look at renting a property.

The demand for privately rented accommodation has increased, but the choice of properties available can be limited. Prospective tenants have the option to use a letting agent, which may increase the choice of properties available. However, with about 13,000 agents in the UK this can be a difficult choice in itself. York Trading Standards offers advice on what to look out for when choosing a letting agent.

Look for agents who are members of The National Approved Letting Scheme (NALS). These agents will be members of a trade body with a code of practice. The agents will also have to follow the NALS code of conduct and meet minimum service standards, including having an internal complaints procedure, a legally binding arbitration service and a client's money protection scheme. About 3,000 agents are members of a trade body. Remember under the Accommodation Agencies Act 1953 it is illegal for a letting agent to demand payment for registering a person looking for accommodation or for supplying a list of properties available to rent.

On agreeing to rent a property, tenants will normally be asked to pay one month's rent in advance as well as a deposit, which could be as much as six weeks rent. Tenants are also expected to supply references from their employer, bank and previous landlord.

Check your tenancy agreement and the contract with the agent carefully before signing anything. The tenancy agreement will detail any charges made by the agent on behalf of the landlord, such as penalties for late payment. The contract between the tenant and the agent will set out any charges which may be made for such things as administration, preparation of references, and tenancy agreements.

Tenants are normally responsible for paying the council tax on the property rented, as well as the bills for domestic services.

At the end of your tenancy an inventory check will take place. This is done to make sure that the property has been left in good condition. Read the tenancy agreement carefully to make sure that you understand what is expected of you. You may be required to clean the property and tidy the garden before leaving. Tenants do not have to attend the final inspection but York Trading Standards advise you to be there, if possible, to avoid charges for anything which the agent claims to have found in your absence. After the final inspection has been carried out the agent will give you back your deposit.

If you feel you have received poor service from a letting agent, or have any other consumer issue you wish to discuss, contact York Trading Standards at 9 St Leonard's Place or telephone 01904 551562.

The fax number is 01904 551590 and the email address is trading.standards@york.gov.uk