🚚 What to Check Before You Move Into a Rental Property
Moving into a new rental home is exciting, but it’s also a time when important details can be overlooked. Taking a few simple steps before and on move-in day can help tenants avoid disputes, unexpected costs, and stress later on.
This quick guide covers the key things every renter in the UK should check when moving into a property.
🔑 1. Check the Inventory Carefully
Most rental properties come with an inventory:
- Review it as soon as you move in
- Check furniture, appliances, flooring and walls
- Note any existing damage, marks or wear
If something isn’t listed, report it in writing straight away. This can help protect your deposit at the end of the tenancy.
🧾 2. Confirm Important Documents
Before or at move-in, tenants should receive:
- A copy of the tenancy agreement
- An Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
- The How to Rent guide (England)
- Gas and electrical safety information, where applicable
If you’re missing anything, ask the landlord or agent to provide it.
🔥 3. Test Heating, Water & Electrics
On your first day:
- Turn on the heating and hot water
- Check taps, toilets and showers work properly
- Test lights and sockets
Any issues should be reported immediately, while responsibility is clear.
🚨 4. Check Safety Features
Safety checks are essential:
- Test smoke alarms
- Check carbon monoxide alarms, if fitted
- Locate the fuse box and stopcock
Knowing where these are can save time in an emergency.
📸 5. Take Photos on Move-In Day
Take clear photos or videos of:
- Every room
- Any damage or wear
- Meter readings
Store them safely — they can be very useful if there’s ever a dispute about condition or bills.
💡 6. Set Up Utilities & Council Tax
Make sure you:
- Register for gas, electricity and water
- Take and submit meter readings
- Register for council tax
- Set up broadband early if needed
Doing this promptly avoids unexpected charges later.
🤝 7. Understand Your Responsibilities
Tenants are usually responsible for:
- Keeping the property reasonably clean
- Reporting issues promptly
- Not causing damage beyond normal wear and tear
Understanding this helps maintain a good relationship with your landlord.
✅ Quick Moving-In Checklist
✔ Inventory checked
✔ Documents received
✔ Heating & water tested
✔ Alarms working
✔ Photos taken
✔ Utilities set up
