Getting started in a private rented tenancy

Deposits

Landlords and letting agents usually ask for a deposit before any tenancy begins. This money is held by the landlord and can be used to cover the cost of breakages or unpaid bills outstanding at the end of the tenancy. By law, a deposit cannot be more than the equivalent of two months rent. You may also be asked for the first month's rent in advance as well as the deposit. 

Be sure to get a signed receipt when you give a deposit and make sure you are clear under what circumstances you would not get your deposit back. We advise not to give a deposit for a property you have not visited.

If you are homeless or may become homeless and do not have a deposit then Letfirst may be able to help you access a privately rented home.

Costs

Housing Benefit/Local Housing Allowance (LHA)

If you receive Local Housing Allowance your landlord may ask you to sign a mandate that would allow them to discuss your claim with Revenues and Benefits. Signing this mandate cannot be a condition of your tenancy. If you are uncomfortable signing this, then you don't have to.

Welfare Reform - Changes to LHA

As part of the Government's Welfare Reform, there will be changes to the way in which Local Housing Allowance is administered and awarded.

The current restrictions which apply for those aged under 25 will, from January 2012, be applied to those aged under 35. If you are considering renting a property you must make sure that you are entitled to enough housing benefit to meet the rent.

Standing order/bank forms

If you pay your rent in cash, always get a receipt and if you are paying cash directly into your landlord's bank account keep the receipts. Your landlord or agent may want the rent paid by standing order. Fill out the forms and ask for a copy for your records. Check your bank statements to make sure the rent is being paid and how much is leaving your account. If you pay your rent weekly you must be given a rent book.

First month's rent

You may be asked for your first month's rent at this sign up meeting. If you give any payment, make sure you get a receipt.