Understanding Tenancy Agreements

A written tenancy agreement sets out the rules, rent and dates for your new home. Reading it carefully before you sign can prevent problems later.

What to do: Use GOV.UK and Citizens Advice housing pages to learn what a fair agreement usually includes. Before you sign, check the agreement for rent amount, payment dates, bills, deposit and how to end the tenancy, and ask questions if anything is not clear.

What do you need: You need the draft tenancy agreement, your ID, and information about your income and deposit.

Outcomes: You will have a signed agreement that clearly explains your home, rent and basic rights and duties.

Lifehack: Take photos of the property before you move in and keep them with the agreement to help with any future deposit disputes.