Moving in

Things to Do When You Move In

• Follow the landlord or agent's moving-in procedure if they have one.
  
• If there is an inventory, carefully check that it accurately reflects the condition of the property, as it will be used to determine how much of your deposit is returned at the end of the tenancy.
  
• If there is no inventory, consider creating your own and agreeing it with the landlord/agent. This can make things easier when you move out.
  
• Ensure you have a valid Gas Safety Certificate.
  
• Accurately document the condition of the property by taking photos and/or videos. This may help you negotiate for the return of your deposit when you move out.
  
• Report any issues to your landlord/agent.
  
• On the day you move in, take meter readings for the utilities and notify the utility companies of the new tenants. Ideally, all tenants should be listed on the utility bills, but some providers may require one person to hold the account. If this is the case, ensure everyone provides written confirmation to the account holder agreeing to pay their share of the bills and providing a non-term-time address.
  
• If your household will be using a TV or streaming/downloading TV content, make sure you get a TV Licence. 
  
• Full-time students are exempt from paying Council Tax.
• Agree on a set of house rules with the other tenants and stick to them. If problems arise, try to resolve them through discussion.

If everything is in order with the property, enjoy your time there!

Problems When You Move In

It's important that the landlord/agent fulfils their obligations under the contract when you move in. 

While most landlords/agents do everything as required, if you encounter any issues, notify them as soon as possible. 

They can only address problems if they are aware of them! For guidance on resolving accommodation problems, visit our page on Accommodation Problems.

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