Hello everyone, I’d really appreciate some advice. I was a student for four years and always lived in student accommodation, but now I’m getting ready to rent privately for the first time. I’m not sure what to expect when signing a rental contract — what things should I ask about, and what should be clearly mentioned in the agreement? Also, how can I make sure that when I return the property in the same condition, I’m not charged for any damage that was already there before I moved in?
I’m sure there are many other questions I haven’t even thought of yet, so any guidance or tips would be very helpful before I start this new journey. Thank you!
Familiarise yourself with the “How To Rent Guide” which is a government document which clearly sets out the responsibilities of both the Landlord and the tenant. I imagine in student accommodation if a light bulb blows or the smoke alarm battery needs replacing you would call maintenance. In a private rented property you would be expected to deal with it yourself.
Most landlords will usually conduct an inventory with time stamped photos of all areas of the property. You will usually be given a copy on the day you move in. It’s not a legal requirement so you can ask when viewing if this is something they provide. If they don’t, they will not be able to claim against your deposit for damages without photographic evidence.
Most importantly, on the 1st May 2026 The Renters Rights Act comes into force which changes the law in the tenants favour.
All tenancies in the private rental sector will become periodic which means they will role from month to month with no end date. Fixed terms will be abolished. A tenant can leave at anytime by giving two months notice. Landlords will have to belong to an ombudsman scheme which will help settle any disputes between landlord and tenant and there is lots of other stuff too much to mention in this post.
Get on the Shelter website and read their guides for private renting. They’re very much written to support tenants who aren’t familiar with their rights.