Check you have received these documents:
What they must give to you:
- Tenancy agreement (including landlords name and UK address)
- Energy performance certificate (EPC)
- Gas Safety certificate Electrical condition installation report (ECIR)
- Government’s How to Rent booklet
- Information about where your deposit has been protected within 30 days of making this payment
What they should give to you:
- Inventory and schedule of condition
- Guaruntor agreement
Check the inventory report
This report should list all the fixtures, fittings and appliances in the property and their condition. Let your landlord, agent or inventory clerk know in writing if you disagree with any of the information in the report. If there is no inventory, you could make your own with photos and send this to your landlord to agree.
Having an accurate inventory will help with any disputes about deductions from your security deposit at the end of your tenancy.
Set up utility accounts
Take readings of any metres when you move in. Set up accounts for electricity, gas and water in your name(s). This will help to ensure you only pay for the supply that you use.
Apply for council tax exemption
Your contract should specify if you are liable to pay the council tax. If you are liable, you can apply for exemption from your local council which you can find here. UAL have also outlined how you can recieve a letter from them as proof of your student status for exemption, find this here.
Set up internet
Check your contract to see if you’ll need to set up an account with an internet provider.
Purchase a TV license
From April 2025, a license costs £174.50 for a year.
You’ll need a license if you watch TV, record live TV or watch BBC iPlayer. You can face prosecution and a £1000 fine if you don’t have a license.