Tenant Move-In Checklist
Moving into a new rental? Use this checklist to protect yourself and make sure everything is in order from day one.
Before you move in
On move-in day
First week
Helpful organisations
Shelter
CharityA housing charity providing advice and support for people who are homeless or at risk of losing their home.
Citizens Advice
CharityProvides free, confidential, and independent advice on a wide range of issues including benefits, housing, debt, and employment.
Tenancy Deposit Scheme
GovernmentGovernment-approved tenancy deposit protection scheme that safeguards deposits and resolves disputes.
Related guides
Tenancy Agreement Basics
A tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract between you and your landlord. It sets out the rights and responsibilities of both parties during the tenancy. Whether it is written or verbal, a tenancy agreement creates enforceable legal obligations — but certain rights and responsibilities apply regardless of what the agreement says.
7 min read
Rental Deposit Rules
Your landlord is legally required to protect your tenancy deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receiving it. Failure to do so gives you the right to claim up to three times the deposit amount in compensation. Understanding your deposit rights can save you significant money.
6 min read
Getting Your Deposit Back
At the end of your tenancy, you are entitled to the return of your deposit within a reasonable time — typically 10 days — minus any agreed deductions. If your landlord makes unreasonable deductions or refuses to return the deposit, the deposit protection scheme's free dispute resolution service can help.
6 min read
Landlord Repair Responsibilities
Private landlords in England have significant legal obligations to maintain and repair their properties. These duties arise from the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, and other legislation. Understanding what your landlord must fix — and how to enforce this — is essential for every renter.
7 min read
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