We use cookies to provide the best experience on our website. To learn more about how we use cookies, please see our Cookie Policy. You can manage your preferences now on this banner, or via your browser at anytime.
Renting your first property can be very daunting as it may be your first time moving out of home or you may need to relocate for work so we are here for you at every step of the way.
We have put together a short guide for first time renters covering a few key points to take into account before you move into your first rental property.
You can also check out the government's How To Rent guide.
Don't rush into renting, do your homework, know your budget, the area you want and your requirements and ensure the landlord or agent has a good reputation.
Before you begin your search, take some time to plan.
Set your budget
Work out what you can comfortably afford each month. Remember to include:
It’s a good idea to allow some buffer for unexpected expenses.
Decide where to live
Think about what matters most to you, such as:
Having a clear idea of location will help narrow your search.
Research
Use letting agents’ websites, property portals and alerts to see what’s available. Speaking to friends or colleagues who rent locally can also provide useful insights.
Speak to a letting agent
Letting agents can help you understand the local market, register your details and notify you of suitable properties. Be open about your budget, timescales and requirements. Most people will rent through a letting agent. You can view our properties to rent here
Viewing a property is your chance to decide whether it feels right. When viewing, you may want to:
Know how the property is managed
A number of landlords will leave the day to day management to the estate agent so they will deal with any maintenance issues on your behalf. Other landlords will manage the property themselves. It's good to know how your property is managed so you're aware of who to contact if there's a problem.
Once you find a property you like and you would like to apply, you'll usually need to:
Referencing
Referencing helps confirm your identity and ability to afford the rent. This may include employment, income or previous landlord checks.
Tenancy agreement
Before you move in, you will receive a tenancy agreement outlining:
Take time to read this carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
A security deposit is usually required. This is protected in an approved scheme and held as security against rent arrears or damage beyond fair wear and tear. Paperwork is often completed digitally for ease and convenience.
Moving in
When your tenancy begins, you should receive:
It’s a good idea to take meter readings and familiarise yourself with appliances straight away.
Your responsibilities
As a tenant, you’re expected to:
The landlord’s responsibilities
Your landlord is responsible for:
Any changes to rent or tenancy terms will:
You have the right to ask questions and seek advice if you are unsure. You can view Tenant Permitted charges here.
Continuing the tenancy
Most tenancies now run on an ongoing (periodic) basis. If you wish to stay in the property, it will usually continue automatically unless either you or the landlord decides to end it in line with the law.
If you would like to make any changes to the tenancy, such as updating the rent or terms, these must be carried out in accordance with current legislation and properly agreed between all parties.
Notice and ending the tenancy
A tenancy will continue until it is ended by either the tenant giving notice, or the landlord following the legal possession process.
As a tenant, the amount of notice you are required to give will depend on your tenancy agreement and the type of tenancy you have. You should always check your agreement carefully and speak to your landlord or agent if you are unsure.
Moving out and your deposit
At the end of the tenancy, the property should be returned in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear.
Providing there is no outstanding rent owed, and no cleaning or repairs are required, your security deposit will be returned to you in full. If cleaning or repairs are needed, these will be agreed between you and the landlord and the cost deducted from your deposit, with the balance returned to you. If there is a dispute, the deposit protection scheme will provide a resolution service.
Renting is about more than finding a property, it’s about finding a place you can feel comfortable calling home.
Ask questions, take your time where possible, and don’t be afraid to seek advice. A good letting agent or landlord will be happy to help. If you need support at any stage, our team is always here to help you.
If you’d like to see what’s currently available with us, explore our properties to rent.