Renting a home: what to check before you sign
Most rental disputes come down to the deposit, repairs or ending the lease early. Sorting these out before you sign is much easier than arguing about them later.
Who you are renting from
Check that the person letting the property owns it or has the owner's permission to let it. Ask to see proof of ownership or the agent's agreement with the owner. Some buildings and countries need a licence or registration to let, and some leases forbid subletting.
The lease
- The length of the term, and how and when either side can end it early.
- The rent, when it is due and how it can increase.
- What is included: furniture, appliances, parking, building fees.
- Who pays for which bills and repairs.
- Rules on pets, guests and alterations.
If the lease is in a language you do not read well, get a translation before signing.
The deposit
Agree in writing how much the deposit is, where it is held, what it can be used for and when it will be returned. Some countries require deposits to be protected. In England and Wales, landlords must place an assured shorthold tenancy deposit in a government-approved protection scheme within 30 days.
The inventory
On the day you move in, go through the property with the landlord or agent and record its condition, with dated photos of every room, appliance and existing mark. Both sides should sign the list. This record decides most deposit disputes.
Repairs
Ask who to contact for repairs, how fast urgent problems will be fixed, and if you may arrange a repair yourself if the landlord does not respond.
Before you pay
Never pay a deposit for a property you have not seen, in person or by live video with someone you trust. Pay by a traceable method and get a receipt.