Deposits, charges and tenancy agreements
Most landlords expect a rent deposit. A landlord or agent can only ask for up to the equivalent of 5 weeks' rent for a deposit.
The landlord will also normally request that you pay the first month’s rent in advance.
Lettings agents and estate agents can no longer charge fees for administration, references or credit checks.
Your landlord must put your deposit in a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme and your deposit can be registered with:
For more information see GOV.UK: Tenancy deposit protection.
If you agree to rent a property from a private landlord, you will normally receive a written tenancy agreement outlining the terms and conditions of your tenancy. You should ask for a copy of any tenancy agreement and read it very carefully before you sign it. If you are unsure about anything, get further advice before you agree and sign.
For more information see GOV.UK: Private renting: tenancy agreements.