There are many things to consider in deciding whether to rent a home in the Private Rental Sector. Take your time and don’t rush into it, as once you’ve signed the tenancy agreement, you are committed to paying the rent for the duration of the contract.

We have created a short checklist of the main things to consider when viewing a property:

• Is it in good condition and does everything work?
• If you have any concerns, ask the landlord to carry out repairs or provide the information you request before you agree to take on the tenancy.
• A few things to look out for are:
  • Exterior
    • Does the roof look in good condition – are there any tiles missing?
    • The gutters and pipes aren't broken, leaking, or blocked
    • The windows and doors aren't rotten or causing a draft
  • Interior
    • There are no signs of damp, condensation, or mould
    • There are no signs of pests
    • Check if any furniture included meets current regulations
      • Furniture and Furnishings (Fire Safety) Regulations 1988: "The regulations provide for all furniture manufactured after 1 January 1950 to be fire retardant and carry the proper labels"
    • Are there working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms fitted
  • Gas & Electricity
    • Make sure there are enough plug sockets
    • Ask when the gas and electrics were last checked
    • Gas appliances should be checked on an annual basis
    • Electrics should be checked on a 5-year basis unless stated otherwise in a report
    • Do all the appliances work – boiler, cooker, fires, etc
  • Security
    • What type of locks are fitted to external doors?
    • Do all the windows have locks fitted
    • Is there a burger alarm?
• Can you afford it?
  • In addition to the rent there may be council tax, utility bills, contents insurance and TV license to pay
• Be cautious if the landlord appears too eager to rent the property to you
• Check the neighbourhood during the day, evening, and weekend
  • Will you feel safe living there?
  • Is there good street lighting?
  • Is there a noisy pub or nightclub next door?
  • Will you be able to park your car safely?
• Try to meet your new neighbours
  • Will you get on with them?
  • Do they play loud music or have noisy pets that are likely to disturb you?
• If you have a pet, will your landlord agree to you keeping it at the property?
• What fees do I have to pay?
  • Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019 your landlord and managing agent are now restricted in the fees that they can charge. It is illegal for any charges to be made other than:
    • A holding deposit which cannot be for more than one week’s worth of rent. This is refundable unless you are responsible for the tenancy not proceeding (e.g., not providing the correct information, changing your mind, etc.) and can only be held for 15 days unless agreed otherwise such as being offset against your rent
    • A tenancy deposit which cannot be for more than five weeks’ worth of rent. This can be used to cover any damage caused by you, rent arrears, unpaid bills, etc.
    • Rent
    • Utilities and Council Tax
    • A TV licence and communication services (e.g., broadband, satellite TV)
    • The actual cost of lost keys
    • Interest at 3% above base rate for unpaid rent after 14 days
    • A fee of £50 if the landlord varies the tenancy agreement at your request
    • Payments if the tenancy is ended early by agreement – which must not be more than the total rent due under the tenancy agreement