We use cookies to provide the best experience on our website. To learn more about how we use cookies, please see our Cookie Policy. You can manage your preferences now on this banner, or via your browser at anytime.
Renting your first home is an exciting step, but it can also feel overwhelming if you’re not sure what to expect, especially if you are a first time renter. This guide explains the renting process from start to finish, helping you feel informed, prepared and confident at every stage. If you are renting your first home and want to know how renting works, then this guide will give you the basics.
If you would like some advice or to have a chat with one of our specialists then call or pop into your local branch.
You can also check out the government's How To Rent guide.
Don't rush into letting, do your homework, know your budget, the area you want and your requirements and ensure the landlord or agent has a good reputation.
Before you begin your search, take some time to plan.
Work out what you can comfortably afford each month. Remember to include:
It’s a good idea to allow some buffer for unexpected expenses.
Think about what matters most to you, such as:
Having a clear idea of location will help narrow your search.
Use letting agents’ websites, property portals and alerts to see what’s available. Speaking to friends or colleagues who rent locally can also provide useful insights.
Letting agents can help you understand the local market, register your details and notify you of suitable properties. Be open about your budget, timescales and requirements. Most people will rent through a letting agent. You can view our properties to rent here
Viewing a property is your chance to decide whether it feels right. When viewing, you may want to:
A number of landlords will leave the day to day management to the estate agent so they will deal with any maintenance issues on your behalf. Other landlords will manage the property themselves. It's good to know how your property is managed so you're aware of who to contact if there's a problem.
Once you find a property you like and you would like to apply, you'll usually need to:
Referencing helps confirm your identity and ability to afford the rent. This may include employment, income or previous landlord checks.
Before you move in, you will receive a tenancy agreement outlining:
Take time to read this carefully and ask questions if anything is unclear.
A security deposit is usually required. This is protected in an approved scheme and held as security against rent arrears or damage beyond fair wear and tear. Paperwork is often completed digitally for ease and convenience.
When your tenancy begins, you should receive:
It’s a good idea to take meter readings and familiarise yourself with appliances straight away.
As a tenant, you’re expected to:
Your landlord is responsible for:
Any changes to rent or tenancy terms will:
Increases in rent can only happen once per year, and not in the first year. You can appeal rent increases if you think the rate of increase is unfair or unreasonable. For example: if it's way above market rate.
Most tenancies prior to the Renters' Rights Act 2025 were Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreements, those have now automically transitioned to Assured Periodic Tenancies. The key difference being that they're no longer for a fixed period of time, they just roll on until either the tenant ends it (with a minimum of 2 months notice), or the landlord ends it (under reasonable grounds).
The maximum notice a landlord can ask for is 2 months, if your contract does not specify a notice period, then you must give at least 2 months notice.
At the end of your tenancy the property must be returned in the same condition, allowing for reasonable wear and tear.
The deposit is placed in a deposit protection scheme. The deposit legally belongs to the tenant. If the landlord needs to deduct any amount of the deposit to cover costs, they must provide proof that they have incurred that loss (e.g. invoice for cleaning).
Your deposit will be returned if:
If there is a dispute, the deposit protection scheme will provide a free resolution service.
Renting is about more than finding a property, it’s about finding a place you can feel comfortable calling home.
Ask questions, take your time where possible, and don’t be afraid to seek advice. A good letting agent or landlord will be happy to help. If you need support at any stage, our team is always here to help you.
If you’d like to see what’s currently available with us, explore our properties to rent.