A local expert from Citizen’s Advice provides timely tips on consumer issues.
Q: ‘I’m moving house and will be renting somewhere on my own for the first time. Do you have any advice on what I should do when looking for a new home?’
A: Once you have decided whether you want to rent directly from a landlord or through a letting agent, you can use websites to find somewhere to rent – also check the local press, visit local estate agents and you can also ask friends and family to help.
Never pay any money before viewing the property, and if possible take someone with you. Avoid renting directly from an existing tenant (‘subletting’) as the tenant might not have the landlord’s permission to rent to you. If a tenant shows you around the property on behalf of the landlord they should give you the landlord’s contact details.
Make sure the property is safe and affordable by asking some key questions. For example:
- How much rent is and how it should be paid
- If the rent includes any bills
- How long the tenancy is
- If there’s the opportunity to renew and if there’s a break clause in case you need to end the tenancy early
- If you need to pay a holding deposit while the landlord carries out pre-tenancy checks
- What documents you’ll need to provide, including evidence of your Right to Rent
- How your tenancy deposit will be protected
- If any furniture or appliances are included in the tenancy
- Whether you can have pets
You should also request any obvious problems with the property are fixed before you move in.
If a landlord refuses to rent to you because of who you are, this may be discrimination, as may a ‘no kids policy’ or refusing to rent to you because you get benefits. You only need to tell a landlord or letting agent you receive benefits if they ask. Some may then require a guarantor. They can still refuse to rent to you if they think you won’t be able to afford it.
Remember, if you need any other advice on renting or you run into any problems, you can contact Citizens Advice on 0800 144 8848.
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