Get tenancy ready
Before you start viewing properties or contacting landlords, it’s important to make sure you’re 'tenancy ready'.
This means having everything in place to give landlords confidence that you’re a reliable tenant, and to avoid delays once you find the right home. Being tenancy ready means you:
- Understand your financial situation and know how much rent you can afford.
- Have the necessary documents ready to show a landlord or letting agent.
- Know your rights and responsibilities.
- Are prepared to act quickly if you find a suitable property.
What you’ll need
Proof of identity and right to rent check
By law, landlords must check that you have the legal right to rent in the UK. You’ll need to show:
- Passport or driving licence.
- Immigration documents (if applicable).
Proof of income
- Recent payslips or benefit award letters (e.g. Universal Credit).
- Bank statements (last 3 months).
- Employment contract (if newly employed).
References
- A reference from your current or previous landlord (showing you paid rent on time and looked after the property).
- A character reference (if you haven’t rented before).
Guarantor details (if required)
Some landlords may ask for a guarantor - someone who agrees to pay your rent if you can’t. Your guarantor will usually need to provide:
- Proof of ID and income.
- Credit checks.
Deposit & first month’s rent
You’ll usually need to pay:
- A deposit (normally equivalent to 5 weeks’ rent).
- First month’s rent in advance.
- If you are struggling to pay this, you may be able to apply for a rent deposit loan or a discretionary housing payment.
Getting ready financially
Before visiting properties, we recommend you follow the below steps to make sure you are financially ready:
- Create a financial plan: Look at your incomings and outgoings and seriously think through what rent you can afford. Consider whether you'll need to pay bills and council tax, as well as have money for food, transport and any emergencies. Check out the local housing allowance you will receive if you are on housing benefit.
- Know your credit score: Some landlords or agents may run a credit check.
- Open a bank account: You'll need this for rent payments and any benefit income (such as housing benefit, child benefit or Universal Credit).
Build your case as a good tenant
You can improve your chances of being accepted by:
- Being polite and responsive in communication.
- Dressing appropriately for viewings.
- Being clear about your needs, but also flexible.
- Having all your paperwork ready to go.
If you're on benefits
Letting agents or landlords may not always understand how benefits work. Be ready to explain:
- That your rent will be covered by housing benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit - and you can ask for your landlord to be paid directly.
- That you have budgeting support if needed - the CAB can offer help and support.
- That you’re working with the council or a support agency (if applicable).
If you are struggling to get tenancy ready, our tenancy sustainment team may be able to help you - find out more.
What if you are on the housing register too?
If you are on the housing register and you move into suitable private rented accommodation, your application may be closed - find out more.