Moving into a rented home can be stressful. This page explains what letting agents in Wales must do at move-in so tenants know their rights and what to expect. You will find clear information on inventories, safety certificates, deposit protection, required tenancy paperwork and the condition report, plus practical steps if something is missing or unsafe. The guidance focuses on tenant-facing actions—how to check documents, request repairs, and make a complaint if standards are not met. Examples show when to use official forms or raise issues with the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) in Wales. Read on to learn the specific tasks agents should complete and how to keep accurate records that protect your tenancy.
What letting agents must provide at move-in
At the start of a tenancy agents act for the landlord and should complete several practical tasks so tenants have a safe, documented handover. The agent should follow the duties that arise from standard housing law in England and Wales such as the Housing Act 1988 and Rent Act 1977[4], and must ensure safety and deposit rules are met.
- An accurate inventory and condition report, with dated photos and signatures where possible; keep a copy when you move in.
- Clear deposit handling details: name of the deposit scheme, how much was paid and how to raise a dispute with the scheme (see deposit protection guidance)[1].
- Relevant safety certificates provided at or before move-in, for example gas and electrical checks and any appliance records.
- A written tenancy agreement showing rent, payment dates, tenancy length and any permitted fees or charges.
- Information about access, emergency contact details, and who has keys during the tenancy.
Documents and official forms to check at move-in
Ask the agent for copies and keep them in a single folder or digital file. Important items include:
- Gas safety certificate or record of landlord gas checks; landlords must arrange and provide evidence of these checks (see HSE guidance)[3].
- Any written record of electrical safety (e.g. EICR) or appliance service records where provided.
- Tenancy deposit protection information showing which protected scheme holds your deposit and how to start a dispute (GOV.UK deposit protection)[1].
- Copies of the signed tenancy agreement, the written tenancy terms and any inventory or move-in condition report.
If you cannot resolve a deposit or safety dispute with the agent or landlord, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for help with certain disputes and possession matters; the tribunal process and how to apply are set out by the tribunal service and GOV.UK (see First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) guidance)[2].
Steps to take immediately when you move in
These practical steps help protect your rights and your deposit.
- Read and sign the inventory only after checking it carefully and adding any missing items or damage.
- Take time-stamped photos or a short video of every room and any existing damage, then back them up.
- Confirm you have received any safety certificates and save electronic copies.
- Check the tenancy deposit scheme details and deadline for contesting deductions after checkout.
- Note the landlord or agent contact for urgent repairs and the expected repair response times.
FAQ
- What should I check in the inventory when I move in?
- Check that all items listed are present, note existing damage or stains, take dated photos and sign the inventory if it is accurate. Keep a copy for your records.
- What can I do if my deposit was not protected?
- Contact the letting agent and landlord in writing asking for details of the protection scheme. If there is no resolution, raise a dispute with the deposit scheme or apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for an order. Keep copies of all communications.
- Can letting agents enter after move-in without permission?
- Agents must follow the tenancy terms on notice and cannot enter for non-urgent reasons without reasonable notice or your agreement; keep a note of any agreed inspections.
How-To
- How to document the property: walk each room, take dated photos and save them securely.
- How to check paperwork: verify the tenancy agreement, inventory and deposit protection details and request copies if missing.
- How to check safety certificates: ask for gas and electrical records and compare the dates to recommended inspection intervals.
- How to raise a deposit dispute: follow the protected scheme's dispute process and keep evidence of condition and communications.
- How to escalate to the First-tier Tribunal: gather documents, follow the tribunal guidance and submit an application if necessary.
Key Takeaways
- Keep all move-in documents and dated photos in one secure place to support future disputes.
- Confirm deposit protection details immediately and follow the scheme process if you disagree on deductions.
- Ask for safety certificates at move-in and request repairs in writing to create a clear record.
Help and Support / Resources
- Renting and letting guidance (Welsh Government)
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) guidance
- Housing Act 1988 (legislation.gov.uk)
