If you’re completely new to renting, you might not know where to start or what to expect.

It can take anything from a few days to a few weeks from finding a place to finalising the tenancy.

The process may vary depending on the type of let and whether you’re renting through a private landlord or letting agent, but here’s an outline of the stages involved, with links to more information on our site. You will also find 3 useful checklists for viewings, checking out landlords and letting agents, plus the things to sort and people to contact when you move.

Guide to the Renting Process

Prepare to Search

Prepare your brief: decide your budget & search criteria

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Property Search

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View & Assess Accommodation

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Make an Offer

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Let Agreed (Subject to Contract)

Pay any permitted agent fees & holding deposit to reserve the property
while tenant references are checked & contract is finalised

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Sign the Tenancy Agreement

Landlord & tenants sign the contract
Pay security deposit & advanced rent

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Prepare to Move in

Contact utilities & service providers in advance
On moving in day, agree check-in inventory
Read meters & change utilities bill to tenants’ names

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Enjoy Your New Home!

Useful Checklists

Viewings

There’s a lot to take in at viewings, so it’s a good idea to go prepared with a list of important points to check and questions to ask, so you don’t forget anything.
 
Click here for our printable viewings checklist.
 
 

Landlord/Letting Agency

Before you sign a contract or hand over money, you need to be sure that the prospective agency/landlord is genuine, legal and aware of their responsibilities to the tenants.
 
Click here for our printable list of what to check, so you can spot the good guys and avoid the fraudsters!
 
 

Moving

There’s a whole raft of things to sort and people to contact when you move, including utilities and service providers.
 
Click here for our moving checklist, to ensure you don’t overlook anyone.