Essential Move-In Paperwork for Renters in England

Moving into a new rented home in England is exciting, but it’s vital to collect all the right documents from your landlord or letting agent. Having the correct paperwork at move-in protects your rights, proves your agreement, and ensures you can challenge any future issues. This article will guide you through what paperwork to collect when you move in, which forms are official, and where to find help if something’s missing.

Why Move-In Paperwork Matters for Renters in England

From securing your deposit to understanding your rights, the paperwork you receive at move-in is the foundation for a successful tenancy. England’s Housing Act 1988 and related legislation set out what landlords must provide. Ensuring you have every legal document puts you in the strongest position if disputes arise.

Key Documents to Collect When You Move In

Ask your landlord or letting agent for these essential documents:

• Tenancy agreement: This written contract sets out your rights and responsibilities. For assured shorthold tenancies, it's usually a signed written agreement, but even verbal agreements are legally binding.
• Government 'How to Rent' guide (official checklist): By law, your landlord must give you the latest version at the start of your tenancy.
• Deposit protection certificate and prescribed information: If you pay a deposit, you must be given written proof it's protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days, along with key scheme details.
• Gas safety certificate (CP12): If there are gas appliances, receive a current certificate confirming safety checks, as required by law.
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): This shows how energy-efficient your home is. Your landlord must give you a valid certificate for your property.
• Electrical installation condition report (EICR): For most tenancies, you should receive proof the property’s electrics have been checked within the last five years.
• Contact details: Written contact details for your landlord (not just the letting agent) as required by Section 48 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1987.
• Inventory or check-in report: While not always a legal requirement, this is crucial for agreeing the property’s condition at move-in and helps avoid deposit disputes later on.

Official Forms and Documents Explained

• Deposit Protection Prescribed Information Form (no standard number): Used by landlords to provide renters with details of where the deposit is held and detailed information about the scheme. You'll receive this alongside the deposit protection certificate.
  Example: If you pay £900 as a deposit, within 30 days, your landlord must give you a certificate from a scheme like the Deposit Protection Service, plus prescribed information form.
  View deposit protection information requirements
• ‘How to Rent’ guide (no form number): Every new tenancy must start with the latest official government checklist provided as a physical or digital copy to tenants.
  Example: At move-in, your letting agent emails you a PDF of the up-to-date guide.
• Section 21 Notice (Form 6A) (if ever served): While not used at move-in, know that this form is required if your landlord asks you to leave without fault. It cannot be used unless all your move-in paperwork was provided.
  Find Form 6A on GOV.UK
• Gas Safety Certificate (CP12): Provided annually, with the latest at move-in. For properties with gas, your landlord must give this physical certificate.
  About gas safety checks for tenants
• Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): Should be given before you sign your agreement.
  EPC requirements and certificates

For any issues with paperwork, the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – Residential Property handles residential tenancy disputes in England.

Quick Action Steps if You Haven't Received Documents

• Request missing paperwork in writing from your landlord or letting agent.
• If not provided, seek advice from Shelter England or your local council.
• To challenge unfair practices or start a dispute, contact the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).

FAQ: Move-In Paperwork for Renters in England

1. What if my landlord doesn't give me the 'How to Rent' guide?
   Your landlord must provide the latest "How to Rent" guide at the start of your tenancy. If you didn’t get one, ask for it in writing. Landlords can’t serve a valid Section 21 (Form 6A) eviction notice unless they have given you this guide.
2. Do I need to sign a written tenancy agreement?
   A written agreement is best and legally clarifies your rights. However, a tenancy can still exist if you have a verbal agreement. Always ask for written terms wherever possible.
3. How do I check if my deposit is protected?
   You should be provided with the scheme name and certificate. You can verify deposit protection with the three main schemes: Deposit Protection Service, MyDeposits, or Tenancy Deposit Scheme.
4. Can my landlord refuse to give an inventory?
   Although not a legal requirement, an inventory protects both you and your landlord. If it's refused, consider making your own list and take timestamped photos on move-in day.
5. What should I do if my paperwork is incomplete after moving in?
   Write to your landlord requesting the documents. If not provided promptly, contact your local council or seek advice from Shelter England for support.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Private Renting Guidance (GOV.UK): Clear information for all renters on their rights and paperwork requirements.
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber): Tribunal for residential tenancy disputes in England.
• Shelter England: Renters’ housing advice and support services.
• Citizens Advice: Documents to Get from Your Landlord
• Your local council housing department

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1. Housing Act 1988 (England and Wales)
2. GOV.UK Tenancy Documents Guidance
3. Tenancy Deposit: Information Landlords Must Give
4. Gas Safety for Tenants
5. Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs)
6. Official 'How to Rent' Guide
7. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
8. Landlord and Tenant Act 1987 - Section 48

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