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Tenants are responsible for paying the utility bills, unless the Tenancy Agreement states otherwise. Some Landlords might choose to include the water rates or broadband costs within the rent, for example, however this is uncommon.

The vast majority of letting agents will take a ‘holding deposit’ from a Tenant, in order to secure the property and remove it from the market. This can be a maximum of 1 weeks rent and is deducted from the balance of the monies you owe when you move into the property. You will need to pay the first months rent and the deposit, which can be a maximum of 5 weeks rent, on of before the Tenancy start date.

Yes, by law, your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme (TDS) within 30 days of receiving the monies. You will receive information about the scheme with which your deposit has been protected, and how to retrieve your deposit at the end of the tenancy.

You will need to seek permission from your landlord before making any alterations to the property, including painting or putting up shelves, for example. Some landlords may allow minor changes, but it’s essential to get written consent.

Landlords are typically responsible for most repairs, including structural repairs, plumbing, and electrical issues. Tenants are usually responsible for minor maintenance, such as changing light bulbs and keeping the property clean. Check your tenancy agreement for specific details.

You are entitled to quiet enjoyment of the property and as such, your Landlord or Agent cannot visit too often. Inspections can be carried out as frequently as every 3 months, however they are typically carried out every 6 months.

This depends on the landlord’s policy. Some landlords allow pets with prior permission, while others do not. Always check your tenancy agreement and discuss it with your landlord before bringing a pet into the property.

If you need to leave before your tenancy agreement ends, you should discuss it with your landlord or agent. You may need to find a replacement tenant or pay a fee to cover the landlord’s costs.

To get your deposit back, ensure the property is clean and in the same condition as when you moved in, allowing for fair wear and tear. Take photos and request an inspection with your landlord or agent. If there are no disputes, your deposit should be returned within 10 days after the tenancy ends.

Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property for non-emergency reasons, such as inspections or repairs. They should also visit at a reasonable time. In emergencies, such as a burst pipe, landlords or trades can enter without notice.