Moving Into a Rental: Complete Checklist
Everything you need to do before, during, and after moving into a rental property. Your progress is saved automatically.
Check the property's safety report
Enter the postcode to check EPC rating, local crime data, flood risk, and more.
Verify landlord compliance
Check if the landlord has valid gas safety, deposit protection, EPC, and other legal requirements.
Check if rent is fair for the area
Compare the asking rent against local median rents to make sure you are not overpaying.
Calculate total monthly cost
Do not forget council tax, utility bills, broadband, and contents insurance on top of rent.
Check if the property is an HMO
If you will be sharing with others from different households, the property may need an HMO licence.
Assess damp and mould risk
Look for visible mould, condensation, musty smells, and peeling paint during viewings.
Read and understand your tenancy agreement
Check break clauses, notice periods, restrictions on pets or guests, and any unfair terms.
Verify landlord identity
Ask for proof of ownership or managing agent credentials. Check they are who they say they are.
Take dated photos of every room
Document any existing damage, marks, or wear before you move your belongings in. Include timestamps.
Read meter readings (gas, electric, water)
Photograph each meter with the date visible. You will need these to set up your accounts.
Check smoke alarms work on every floor
Press the test button on each alarm. Required by law since 2022.
Check CO alarms near gas appliances
Carbon monoxide alarms are required by law near any fixed combustion appliance (boiler, gas fire).
Receive keys for all locks
Front door, back door, window locks, communal areas, meter cupboards, and any garage or shed.
Sign and keep a copy of the inventory
Go through it carefully and note any discrepancies immediately. This protects your deposit.
Check all appliances work
Test the oven, hob, fridge, washing machine, boiler, and any other included appliances.
Set up gas and electricity
Contact your preferred supplier with your meter readings. Compare tariffs to get the best deal.
Set up water
Contact your water company. You cannot switch water suppliers; it is based on your area.
Set up broadband
Compare deals and check which providers service your area. Contracts typically run 12-24 months.
Set up contents insurance
Your landlord's building insurance does not cover your personal belongings. Contents insurance is relatively cheap.
Register for council tax
Contact your local council. Apply for single person discount (25% off) if you live alone.
Get TV licence (if needed)
Required if you watch live TV on any channel or use BBC iPlayer. Not needed for other streaming services.
Confirm deposit is protected
Your deposit must be protected in an approved scheme within 30 days: DPS, MyDeposits, or TDS. If not, the landlord cannot serve a Section 21 notice and you may be entitled to 1-3x your deposit in compensation.
Receive prescribed information about deposit
The landlord must give you written details of which scheme protects your deposit, how to get it back, and what to do if there is a dispute.
Receive 'How to Rent' guide
The landlord must provide the current version from GOV.UK. Without it, they cannot use Section 21 eviction.
Receive gas safety certificate
A copy of the current Gas Safe certificate must be provided within 28 days of the annual check.
Receive EPC certificate
The property must have a minimum E rating (C from 2028). The landlord must provide a copy before you move in.
Receive electrical safety report (EICR)
A copy of the Electrical Installation Condition Report must be given within 28 days of the inspection. Must be renewed every 5 years.
Register with a local GP
Find your nearest surgery and register as a new patient.
Register to vote (electoral roll)
Important for your credit score and civic participation. Register at gov.uk/register-to-vote.
Update address with DVLA
A legal requirement; you must update your driving licence address within 28 days of moving.
Update address with bank
Most banks allow you to update online or via their app. Update all accounts and credit cards.
Update address with employer and HMRC
Make sure your tax records and payslips go to the right place.
Set up mail redirect with Royal Mail
Catch anything still being sent to your old address. Redirect costs from around £35 for 3 months.
Keep a repairs log
Record the date, issue, who you contacted, and their response. This is essential evidence if problems escalate.
Save all communication with landlord
Keep emails, text messages, letters, and any written responses. Follow up phone calls with a confirming email.
Check your deposit is still protected (annually)
Use the scheme websites (DPS, MyDeposits, TDS) to verify your deposit is still registered.
Review tenancy before renewal
Check for unfair terms, rent increases, and whether the agreement still suits your needs.