Life in the UK Test

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Tenancy agreement

When you rent a house or flat privately you sign a tenancy agreement, or lease. This explains the conditions or rules you must follow while renting the property. This agreement must be checked very carefully to avoid problems later. The agreement also contains a list of any furniture or fittings in the property. This is called an inventory. Before you sign the agreement, check the details and keep it safe during your tenancy.

Deposit and rent

You will probably be asked to give landlord a deposit at the beginning of your tenancy. This is to cover the cost of any damage. It is usually equal to one month´s rent. The landlord must return this money to you at the end of your tenancy, unless you have caused damage to the property.

Your rent is fixed with your landlord at the beginning of the tenancy. The landlord cannot raise the rent without your agreement. 

If you have a low income or are unemployed you may be able to claim Housing Benefit to help you pay your rent.

 (From: Life in the United Kingdom: A Journey to Citizenship. 2nd Ed. Click here to read the entire chapter.)