Citizens Advice offer free, independent, confidential and impartial advice to everyone on their rights and responsibilities.
Source
Advice for Renters
Looking for somewhere to live?
Here are some key things to consider as you begin your property search.
Source
HM Government
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Category
Eviction
Disrepair
Landlord harassment
Rent or deposit issues
Debt or money problems
Welfare benefits
SourceHM Government
Looking for your new home
Things to check
Deposit cap: Check that the tenancy deposit you’re being asked for is not more than 5 weeks’ rent where annual rent is less than £50,000, or 6 weeks’ rent where annual rent is more than £50,000.
Deposit protection: If the landlord asks for a deposit, check that it will be protected in a government-approved scheme. Some schemes hold the money, and some insure it. You may be able to access a bond or guarantee scheme that will help you put the deposit together. Contact your local council for advice. You may be offered a deposit replacement product as an alternative to a cash deposit. A landlord or agent cannot require you to use a deposit replacement product but may allow it as an option without breaking the Tenant Fees Act. There are several different deposit replacement products available. Depending on the product, you may need to pay a non-refundable fee up- front (often equivalent to one week’s rent) and/or a monthly payment for the duration of your tenancy. With most products, you will still be responsible for the costs of any damages incurred at the end of the tenancy or required to pay an excess on any claim for damages or unpaid rent. It is strongly advised to always check the terms and conditions and to see if it is regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
Length of tenancy: There is usually a fixed period of 6 or 12 months. If you want more security, it may be worth asking whether the landlord is willing to agree to a longer fixed period. Alternatively, you may be offered a weekly or monthly assured shorthold tenancy which does not last for a fixed period. Even with those tenancies, the landlord must allow you to stay for a minimum of 6 months.
Smoking and pets: Check if there are any rules about them, as well as for other things such as keeping a bike, dealing with refuse and recycling.
Bills: Check who is responsible for bills such as electricity, gas, water and council tax. Usually, the tenant pays for these bills. See advice on paying bills.
Fixtures and fittings: Check you are happy with them, as it is unlikely that you will be able to get them changed once you have moved in.
Smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors: Landlords must make sure there is at least one smoke alarm on every floor used as living accommodation, and carbon monoxide alarms in all rooms that have a fixed combustion appliance and are used as living accommodation.
Safety: Check that the property is safe to live in, and use the ‘How to rent a safe home’ guide to help you identify possible hazards.
Fitness for human habitation: Your property must be safe, healthy and free from things that could cause serious harm. If not, you can take your landlord to court. For more information, see the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018 guide for tenants. You should also check whether your tenancy agreement excuses you from paying rent if the building becomes unfit to live in due to, for example, a fire or flood.Flood risk. Your area may be at risk of flooding. Check the long-term flood risk to find out.
Contact details
Normal working hours are Monday to Friday, 9am – 5pm.
