Renting tips

As rising prices keep many first-time buyers off the property ladder, the popularity of renting continues to grow. Renters are renting for longer too - the average age of a first-time buyer is now around 30.

With a healthy buy-to-let market giving tenants more choice, our renting tips will help you find the perfect rental pad.

1. Location, location, location

Location is key when it comes to renting, and will often dictate the rental price more than the property itself. Expect to pay a premium for inner city locations or areas with good transport links, proximity to town or city centres, good nightlife or low crime rates - check an area's neighbourhood profile for a general guide.

2. Your budget

Factor in all the monthly costs you need to pay, not just your rent. Unless they're included, you will need to pay for gas and electricity, water, broadband, phone, digital TV and council tax on top of your rent. Additional costs for parking or extra travel expenses may also apply. Also bear in mind that some landlords pass maintenance or service charge costs on to tenants.

3. Sharing

Choose your co-habitees carefully. If you're renting a room within a property, try and meet all your housemates before you move in. Students, professionals and couples each offer very different renting experiences, so it's good to get an idea of the overall make-up of the house before moving in.

4. Finding a rental property

There are several ways to search for a property. Sign up with local letting agents to be the first to know when new properties come on the market. You can search for property online - listings usually include images and a detailed description. Also keep an eye on local newspaper classifieds.

5. Viewing properties

Check that the property is in good repair, and look for tell-tale signs of damp or structural damage. If repairs are needed, make it a pre-requisite of your contract that the work is completed before you move in. Also ask which pieces of furniture will be in the property when you move in, who is responsible for communal areas and if there are any extras such as parking, a garden or storage space.

6. Deposits and fees

On top of the first month's rent, you'll also need a deposit to secure the property. This is usually equivalent to up to two months' rent, and repayable when you leave the property. Under new legislation, a landlord is required to place your deposit in a Tenancy Deposit Scheme - ask which one they're signed up to.

You may also be required to pay for a credit check of around £40, an agent's fee and the cost of an independent inventory check and report before you're able to move in.

7. The contract

Check the small print of your contract, including the duration of the tenancy, how much notice either party must give to leave the property and what bills you're responsible for. Ensure that any special requests you've made to the landlord are written into the contract.

8. Inventory

An inventory will set out in detail each item contained in the property. Check the inventory report before you move in and tick off each item in turn, making your landlord aware of any indiscrepancies. If you don't, you'll be held responsible and will lose money from your deposit when you move out.

9. Rights and responsibilities

Ensure that you are aware of your rights and responsibilities. Our guide to landlord rights explains what a landlord can legally do, and our guide to landlord responsibilities sets out what you should legally expect from your landlord.

10. Thinking of buying?

If you're considering taking the next step and owning your own property, kickstart your search with our buying tips. Alternatively, consider shared ownership, a key worker scheme or co-buying with someone else.

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