Check the costs of starting to rent from a private landlord

Summary

There might be a problem with the property that you don’t know about. There’s also a risk the offer is a scam. Get a receipt from your landlord or letting agent when you pay any money. You'll need this in case there are any problems. You should also get your landlord or letting agent’s name and contact details before you pay any money. They have to give you their details, even if someone else looks after the property for them. If your landlord or letting agent won’t give you their details, talk to an adviser. When you view a property, ask the landlord or letting agent about everything you’ll have to pay if you rent the property. This helps you avoid unexpected costs. It’s best to ask for details of any extra costs in writing. Other than your rent, your landlord or letting agent can only charge you for: * a tenancy deposit and a holding deposit * utility bills, council tax, or tv licence * changing your tenancy - they can only charge you if you asked for the change If you’re charged fees for anything else, talk to an adviser. A guarantor is someone who agrees to pay your rent if you can’t, for example a parent. If you have a guarantor, a landlord or letting agent is more likely to.

Key information

• a tenancy deposit and a holding deposit
• utility bills, council tax, or tv licence
• paying your rent 14 days late or more
• changing your tenancy - they can only charge you if you asked for the change
• won't get your money back at the end of your tenancy
• might have extra costs when you leave - for example paying for any damage
• might have to pay for a third party to resolve disagreements with your landlord
• you’ll be living in the same building as the landlord
• you’re a student who rents from your university
• don’t give them important information within 15 days - for example a reference
• give them false or misleading information
• fail a 'right to rent' immigration check - check if you have the right to rent

Practical guidance

• Source: Check the costs of starting to rent from a private landlord

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