Tenancy Agreements, Bonds & Rent Books

You'll usually have to sign a tenancy agreement. Read it through first and if you're not sure of anything, get it checked out first if you can. It will probably be an 'assured shorthold' which means you can't be made to leave in the first six months unless you break the agreement (e.g. don't pay the rent or damage the property).

If you pay a bond, get a receipt showing the amount and also that it is returnable. If you can't afford it, talk to one of the agencies listed to see if there is any help available locally.

Make sure you are given a rent book and have it signed whenever you pay rent.

If you move into a house with others, apply for a joint tenancy and make sure all your names are on the rent book and any bills, so no one person is left with the responsibility.