Tenant Guide
Finding and securing a rental property can be an exciting yet sometimes complex process. At Unique London Lettings, our goal is to guide you every step of the way – from selecting the right property, through referencing, to understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
This guide outlines everything you need to know to ensure a smooth and successful tenancy.
1. Securing a Property to Rent
The rental market in the UK, especially in London, moves at a fast pace. High-quality properties are often secured within days — or even hours — of being listed. Therefore, once you've found a property you're interested in, it's important that you and any potential co-tenants are ready to make a prompt decision. Once an agreement is made in principle (the "let agreed" stage), the property will be reserved for you subject to contract. At this point, you will be asked to: •Pay a holding deposit •Provide identification and residency documentation •Undergo referencing checks •Agree to tenancy terms
2. Identification & Residency Documentation
To proceed with your tenancy, you’ll be required to provide the following:
Right to Rent Checks
UK law requires all adults (18+) residing in a rented property in England to prove their right to rent. Typically, this is done using a valid passport or immigration document. If you are unable to provide a passport, please contact us for a list of accepted alternatives.
Proof of Address
You’ll also need to submit one original document dated within the last three months showing your current residential address. Accepted documents include:
•Utility bill •Council tax bill •Bank or credit card statement •Current tenancy agreement •Driving licence •Employer letter (signed, dated, on headed paper) •Home insurance schedule, etc.
3. Referencing Process
Comprehensive referencing ensures the security of all parties involved and confirms your suitability as a tenant. These checks include: •Employment verification and income affordability •Credit history review (including CCJs or IVAs) •Previous landlord references •Address history checks (up to 3 years) •Fraud prevention (CIFAS) and financial sanction screenings •Identity verification
Guarantors
If you're a student, first-time renter, self-employed, or coming from overseas, you may be asked to provide a guarantor. A guarantor agrees to take financial responsibility if you are unable to meet the terms of the tenancy. Requirements for guarantors: •Permanent resident in England or Wales •Proof of income and identification •Not subject to Right to Rent checks
4. Initial Payments and Tenancy Agreement
Once referencing is successfully completed, you will be asked to: •Review and sign your tenancy agreement •Pay your first month’s rent •Pay your tenancy deposit (typically 5 weeks’ rent) We strongly recommend that tenants read the tenancy agreement carefully and seek independent legal advice if necessary. Your deposit will be protected in a government-approved deposit scheme (see next section).
5. Tenancy Deposit Protection
By law, all tenancy deposits for Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) must be held in a government-approved protection scheme. At Unique London Lettings, we use the Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) – operated by The Dispute Service – when instructed by the landlord to hold the deposit. The scheme provides: •Security for your deposit •A clear process for resolving disputes •Protection against unfair deductions You will receive confirmation of your deposit protection within 30 days of payment.
6. Your Rights as a Tenant
As a tenant in England, you are protected by various laws and regulations designed to ensure your home is safe, secure, and fair. Your key rights include:
•To live in a property that is structurally sound and in good repair •To be protected against unfair eviction and unreasonable rent increases •To receive proper notice before the landlord or agent enters the property (minimum 24 hours, unless in an emergency) •To have access to valid Energy Performance Certificates (EPC), Gas Safety Certificates, and Fire Safety Compliance •To be treated fairly and without discrimination •To request reasonable adjustments if you have a disability •To dispute deposit deductions through a formal adjudication process if needed
7. Your Responsibilities as a Tenant
Tenants also have responsibilities which are key to maintaining a successful tenancy. These include:
•Paying rent in full and on time •Covering utility bills unless otherwise agreed •Maintaining the property in good condition •Reporting any damage or maintenance issues promptly •Not subletting or allowing additional residents without written consent •Not keeping pets or smoking indoors unless explicitly permitted •Allowing access for inspections or repairs with appropriate notice •Returning the property in a clean and acceptable condition at the end of tenancy •Respecting neighbours and shared communal spaces •Informing your landlord/agent if you are away for an extended period
At Unique London Lettings, we are committed to supporting our tenants throughout their tenancy journey. Whether you’re renting for the first time or relocating from overseas, we’re here to make the process as smooth, transparent, and fair as possible.