Renting privately
Private renting gives you more choice and flexibility. It can be ideal if you need to move quickly or want to live in a specific area. Social housing is limited locally, so private renting is often the most realistic option.
Private rented homes range from single rooms in shared houses to large family homes. There are options to suit different needs and budgets.
At the start of your tenancy, you usually need to pay:
- A deposit
- One month’s rent in advance
Some landlords or agents may require a holding deposit. This means that they will hold the property for you whilst they undertake necessary checks. The holding deposit cannot be more than one week’s rent and is usually taken off your first rent payment.
Your landlord must protect your deposit in a Tenancy Deposit Protection scheme and give you a deposit certificate. Landlords and agents cannot charge fees for admin or reference checks, these were banned in June 2019.
You may be able to claim benefits to help pay your rent. If you rent privately, you may be entitled to Local Housing Allowance rate.
We may also be able to help with costs through:
- The Housing Prevention Fund
- The Lettings Plus Scheme
- A Discretionary Housing Payment (DHP), for deposits or rent in advance
You can apply online or contact the housing advice and options team for guidance.
Most private rentals use an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST). This will change from 1 May 2026, when the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 comes into force.
Always read your tenancy agreement carefully and make sure you get a written copy. An inventory that records the property’s condition is strongly recommended.
Avoid scams by viewing the property in person and check the landlord or letting agent is genuine. Never send money before you are sure the rental is legitimate.
Ways to rent a property
Look for landlords who belong to an accreditation scheme. These schemes help ensure landlords meet legal and ethical standards. We can advise on schemes in your area.
National schemes include:
- National Residential Landlords Association
- Guild of Residential Landlords
Letting agents must belong to a redress scheme. Check which one they use in case you need to raise a complaint. They must also be part of a client money protection scheme.
By law, this information should be clearly displayed at the agent’s office and on their website.
Many reputable agents are accredited by professional bodies such as:
- Propertymark
- Guild of Property Professionals
- Safeagent
- Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
- UK Association of Letting Agents
Where to find private rented homes
You can search online using:
You can also look on Facebook Marketplace and local Facebook groups, where landlords often advertise rooms or properties.
Help and advice
If you are homeless or at risk of homelessness, please contact Housing Advice and Options:
- Phone: 0300 126 3000
- Email: [email protected]
You can also get support from organisations such as Shelter and Citizens Advice.
Last updated 08 April 2026