Private accommodation

private sector accommodation banner

Everything you need to know about finding a place to live in the private sector

Moving into private accommodation needn’t be stressful. These pages provides a handy overview of what you can expect to encounter at each stage of your private housing journey.

We're here to offer support and advice every step of the way.

timeline

Your private housing journey

Useful links

Before the search

Everything you need to know before you get started.

Who to live with, when to start looking, where to look, how to avoid being scammed, types of accommodation, figuring out costs and budgets and where to live.

Found somewhere

You've found a place you like. Now what?

Viewing propery | Negotiating agreement | Letting fees | Holding deposits | Legal checks | References and guarantors | Security deposit | Signing contract

Moving in

Everything you need for the first few days.

Essential documents | Moving in to-do list | Inventory | Insurance | Safety checks | Bills and utilities | Deposit protection checks

During the tenancy

Know your rights and responsibilities

Repairs | Damp and mould | Infestations | Harassment | Leaving early

Moving out

What you need to know to leave on a high note

Moving out checklist | inventory checks and deposit return | Deposit disputes | Deposit FAQs