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Tenant Guide

Our Tenant guide covers key stages and responsibilities, based on guidance from official UK sources like GOV.UK and Citizens Advice.

 

Part 1: The search and application process

  1. Know what you can afford
  • Calculate your budget: A common rule of thumb is to spend no more than 30%–35% of your take-home pay on rent. Factor in all other costs, such as council tax, utilities, and insurance for your personal belongings.
  • Prepare your documents: Have your identification (e.g., passport), proof of address, payslips, and references (from your employer and a previous landlord) ready to speed up the process.

2. Search for a property

  • Set your criteria:  make a list of your must-haves (e.g., location, number of rooms, transport links) and your nice-to-haves (e.g., a garden, parking).
  • Arrange viewings: Contact letting agents or private landlords to view properties. Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the property, the tenancy, and the local area.

3. What to check during a viewing

  • Condition of the property: Look for any signs of disrepair, damp, or mould. Check the quality of the fixtures and fittings, as well as the security of the doors and windows.
  • Safety features: Ensure there are working smoke alarms on every floor and carbon monoxide detectors in any room with a fixed combustion appliance.
  • Check the inventory: If an inventory is available, check it carefully to make sure it accurately reflects the condition and contents of the property.
Tenant Guide

Part 2: Before you move in

  1. Understand your tenancy agreement
  • Read the contract thoroughly: Your tenancy agreement outlines all the terms and conditions. It should include the names of all parties, the rent amount, the tenancy start and end date, and your and your landlord’s obligations.
  • Check for special clauses: Be aware of any specific rules, such as restrictions on pets, smoking, or redecorating.

2. Pay the deposit and first rent

  • Protect your deposit: In England, your deposit must be protected in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme within 30 days of receipt.
  • Get written confirmation: Your landlord or agent must provide you with details of which scheme they have used to protect your deposit. This confirms your money is safe and provides a clear process for any disputes at the end of your tenancy.

3. Confirm bills and responsibilities

  • Utilities and council tax: Clarify who is responsible for which bills. It is usually the tenant’s responsibility to set up and pay for utilities like gas, electricity, and water, as well as council tax.
  • Maintenance: Understand what maintenance you are responsible for (e.g., changing lightbulbs, unblocking sinks) and what the landlord is responsible for (e.g., major repairs to the structure).

Part 3: During your tenancy

  1. Behaving as a tenant

  • Pay your rent on time: Your tenancy agreement will specify the date your rent is due. Missing a payment is a serious breach of your contract.
    Take care of the property: Act in a “tenant-like manner” by keeping the property clean, preventing blockages, and carrying out small maintenance tasks.
  • Be a good neighbour: Respect your neighbours and do not cause any undue noise or disruption.

2. Reporting repairs

  • Inform your landlord: Report any issues with the property to your landlord or agent as soon as possible. Do this in writing so you have a record.
  • Allow access: Give your landlord reasonable access for inspections or repairs, with at least 24 hours’ notice, unless it’s an emergency.

3. Your rights

  • Live in a safe home: Your landlord must ensure the property is safe and fit for human habitation.
  • Enjoy your home peacefully: Your landlord cannot enter your property without your permission, except in an emergency.
family moving
holding keys

Part 4: At the end of your tenancy

  1. Give notice

Follow the agreement: You must give proper written notice to your landlord if you wish to end the tenancy. The required notice period will be specified in your agreement

2. Prepare for the move-out inspection

  • Clean thoroughly: Leave the property in the same condition as you found it, allowing for fair wear and tear. This includes a thorough clean of all rooms and appliances.
  • Address damages: If you have caused any damage beyond normal wear and tear, you may need to cover the cost of repairs from your deposit.
  • Take a record: Take photos or videos of the property’s condition on the day you leave.

3. Deposit return

  • Agree on deductions: If the landlord plans to make any deductions from your deposit, they must explain why. Deductions can be made for damage or rent arrears.
  • Dispute resolution: If you disagree with the deductions, you can raise a dispute through your tenancy deposit protection scheme.