7 April 2026
Tenancy Agreement Checklist: 10 Things to Check Before You Sign
Before signing a UK tenancy agreement, check these 10 critical points. A checklist every international student renting in the UK needs.
1. Check the rent amount and what it includes
Confirm the exact monthly rent and whether it includes bills such as gas, electricity, water and broadband. Some landlords advertise all-inclusive rents. Make sure this is written explicitly in the agreement, not just promised verbally.
2. Verify the deposit amount is legal
Since 2019, landlords in England cannot charge more than 5 weeks rent as a deposit for annual rents under GBP50,000. Check the exact figure. Also confirm which deposit protection scheme will be used and that you will receive the prescribed information within 30 days.
3. Check the tenancy length and break clauses
Most student tenancies are fixed-term โ typically 12 months. Check whether there is a break clause allowing either party to end the tenancy early, usually after 6 months with 1 to 2 months notice. Without a break clause you are liable for the full term.
4. Understand your repair responsibilities
The agreement should clearly state what repairs the landlord is responsible for and what falls to you. By law, landlords must maintain the structure, plumbing, heating and electrical systems. You are generally responsible for minor maintenance and keeping the property clean.
5. Check for prohibited charges
Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords and agents cannot charge for referencing, administration, guarantor arrangements, or early contract renewal. The only permitted payments are rent, the deposit, a holding deposit, and utility charges explicitly permitted in the contract.
6. Verify the landlord is authorised to rent
In some areas of England and all of Wales and Scotland, landlords require a licence. In London, selective and additional licensing schemes apply in many boroughs. Ask your landlord for their licence number and verify it.
7. Check the notice requirements
Both you and your landlord must give notice to end the tenancy. Standard notice from a tenant is one month at the end of a fixed term, or as specified in the agreement. Ensure the notice periods are fair and clearly written.
8. Read the restrictions carefully
Check what you are and are not allowed to do. Common restrictions include no pets, no smoking, no subletting, and guest limitations. Breaching these can result in eviction and loss of your deposit.
9. Confirm who manages the property
Is the property managed by the landlord directly or through an agent? Know who to contact for repairs, emergencies and payment issues. Both parties contact details should be in the agreement.
10. Get the agreement analysed before signing
Use RentalSafe UK to have the full agreement reviewed by AI before you sign. Our report identifies red flags, unfair clauses, illegal terms and negotiation points โ so you know exactly what you are agreeing to.
Protect yourself before you sign
RentalSafe UK analyses your tenancy agreement with AI โ identifying red flags, verifying your landlord, and giving you negotiation scripts. From ยฃ29.
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