What to do before you rent
There are several things you can do before you rent a property to make the process easier and prevent problems occurring at a later date.
- When you start to look for rented property, work out your budget taking into account your bills and other outgoings, so you know what you can realistically afford, you may be able to get Housing Benefit to help pay you rent so find out beforehand. You should never agree to rent a property if you are unsure you can afford it, as not paying your rent will normally result in Court proceedings being taken against you and your eviction from the property.
- Before you agree to rent, or sign anything, take a good look around the property you’re thinking of renting. Is it safe and suitable for you to live in? Here are some things you should think about:
- Heating: what kind is there, and does it work?
- Damp: look for tell tale stains or mould on walls and ceilings.
- Electricity: are there enough sockets and do they work?
- Water: is there provision for hot water?
- Gas: does the property have a Gas Safety Certificate from a CORGI gas engineer?
- Kitchen and bathroom: are they well equipped and big enough? Do they have adequate ventilation? Do all the fixtures and fittings work?
- Furniture: check what comes with the property and what condition it is in. The landlord should give you a list. Make sure you agree with what’s on it.
- Security: check that all the doors and windows close properly and that there are enough locks and bolts to keep the place secure.
- Safety: how would you get out in a fire? Is there a smoke alarm? If you’re thinking of moving into a house that’s been converted into flats, bedsits or a hostel there should be fire safety equipment such as smoke and heat detectors, fire doors and fire blankets.
- Make a list of anything that does not work or is missing and talk to the landlord about it.
- Get a written tenancy agreement, which says what your rent is and spells out what you and your landlord are responsible for.
- From April 2006 if you pay a deposit to the Landlord, your Landlord must ensure that deposit is protected by a Tenancy Deposit Scheme and notify you of the scheme details within 14 days from the beginning of the tenancy. Always get a receipt for your deposit from the landlord.
