There will probably be many questions you will think about when looking to rent a property. Here are a few of the most common. For more details on any specific area of renting, we suggest using our comprehensive site search tool to find them
“Our news article explains key things tenants should understand before renting a property, including holding deposits, upfront rent, tenancy deposits, referencing, tenancy agreements, bills, renewal terms and how deposits are returned at the end of a tenancy. Some fee rules have changed, so renters should check the current UK guidance on permitted payments, deposit protection, tenancy rights and landlord responsibilities before signing. It is mainly about Sussex (our news team is in Brighton, East Sussex!), but it could apply to the UK as a whole.”
Do I have to pay any fees to the Agent who I am using to find a rental property?
You should not pay introductory fees simply for registering your interest, but there will be certain costs for you to cover, initially for referencing fees, and later, if you take up the tenancy, for inventories and administration, including the preparation of the tenancy agreement.
The Agent is asking for a holding deposit – What is it, and do I get it back?
Holding Deposits – usually a small amount — may be asked for when you make an offer on a property. If, for any reason, you decide not to proceed by the agreed date, the holding deposit, or part of it, will be retained against any agency costs already incurred. After referencing, it will be offset against the first rent payment and the full deposit payment. If the landlord decides not to proceed, then the holding deposit will be returned. Paying a holding deposit does not guarantee you the property or legally obligate either party to enter into a subsequent tenancy.
Notice Period
With all the latest changes in renting and landlord-tenant law, how long is the notice period? Is this a short-term let or is this a long-term tenancy? See the Renters Rights Act.
How much money do I need to have at the beginning of the tenancy?
Usually, at least a month’s rent in advance and the equivalent of a month to six weeks’ rent to be held as a deposit against damage (and the administrative charges noted above). You may be asked to put down a larger deposit if there are any issues with your references; however, assuming all goes well with the tenancy, you will receive this back at the end.
What information will I need to supply the agent before I can take up the tenancy?
The names and addresses of referees for the agent to write and confirm your ability to meet the rental commitment. You may also be required to fill out referencing forms, and this will ask for your bank or building society, employer, previous landlords, or, for some, your solicitor and/or accountant. More advice.
What are my responsibilities as a Tenant?
These should be clearly set out in your tenancy agreement, which you should read carefully before you sign. If in doubt, ask the agent. There is a duty for professional agents to ensure that anyone relying on them is offered correct advice. You can search our website for further information.
What is the tenancy agreement?
It is a legally binding document (the contract) between you and the landlord, applicable only to you and the property you are renting, that states the amount of rent, the length of the tenancy, your rights and responsibilities. Your agreement will most probably be an Assured Shorthold tenancy under the Housing Act 1988.
How long does the referencing take before I can move in?
Depending on the agent, it can take between five and ten working days to take up and confirm references, accepting cleared funds covering the first rent period and the deposit, and arrange for inventories. No professional agent should allow you possession before all this has been done.
How long can I rent the property for under my tenancy?
Most agents require the initial period to be at least six months and rarely draft a tenancy agreement for more than a year. After that you can take out an extension or a new agreement .. see below..
What do I do and what happens if I want to stay longer or leave early?
Tenancies are frequently renewed and agents often agree the terms for renewal at the beginning and include them in the tenancy agreement. If you’re likely to leave before the end of the original term agreed, you must negotiate break clauses to be written into the agreement. If not, you will remain responsible for the rent until the end of the term agreed.
What other bills will I have to pay for?
Normally you pay gas, electricity, water and telephone bills and don’t forget the TV. licence, etc; and the Council Tax applicable to the property.
How do I end my tenancy?
You must make sure you fulfil your obligations stated in the tenancy agreement to leave the property in the condition it was in at the start, or deductions will be made from your deposit. These will may include cleaning and replacing any damaged items. All items must be returned to where you found it at the time of the inventory.
How do I get my deposit back at the end of the tenancy?
There is normally a “checkout” procedure when an inventory check and condition inspection takes place and providing there are no missing items or damage, your deposit should be returned shortly after you leave the property. You cannot set your deposit against the last rent payment due.
- GOV.UK: Private renting
Official UK guidance covering tenants’ rights, landlord responsibilities, deposits, rent, repairs, tenancy agreements and ending a tenancy. - GOV.UK: How to rent guide
Government checklist for renters in England, explaining what to check before renting, including deposits, paperwork, safety documents and tenancy terms. - GOV.UK: Tenancy deposit protection
Explains how landlords must protect deposits, when tenants should receive prescribed information and how disputes over deductions can be handled. - Shelter England: Tenant fees and charges
UK housing charity guidance explaining which rental fees are banned, which payments are allowed and what tenants can do if charged unfairly. - Citizens Advice: Renting privately
Practical UK advice on finding a property, tenancy checks, deposits, rent, bills, repairs, landlord problems and moving out.
