Renting in London — basics
Deposits, references, Right to Rent, and where to get help.
Renting in London can move quickly, especially in competitive areas. Understanding deposits, references, and legal checks will help you avoid delays and reduce the risk of scams or misunderstandings.
Deposits and protection
Most private renters in England sign an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST).
For most new tenancies:
- Security deposits are usually capped at five weeks’ rent if annual rent is under £50,000
- If annual rent exceeds £50,000, the deposit may be capped at six weeks’ rent
Your landlord or letting agent must:
- Protect your deposit in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme
- Do this within 30 days of receiving your deposit
- Provide prescribed information confirming where the deposit is protected
Government-approved deposit schemes include:
You should always receive written confirmation. If you do not, request it immediately.
Holding deposits
A holding deposit may be requested to reserve a property.
Typically:
- Capped at one week’s rent
- Should be deducted from your first rent payment or deposit
- Must follow legal rules regarding refunds or forfeiture
Always ask:
- When the holding deposit is refundable
- What conditions apply
- When the tenancy must be signed
Avoid paying holding deposits before viewing or verifying the property.
References and checks
Landlords and letting agents commonly request:
- Proof of income (payslips or employment contract)
- Employer reference
- Previous landlord reference (if available)
- Bank statements
- Credit or affordability checks (with your consent)
If you are new to the UK, you may provide:
- Overseas employer letter
- University confirmation
- Bank statements
- Offer letter
- Guarantor (sometimes requested)
Being transparent and prepared can help secure a property faster.
Right to Rent
In England, landlords and agents must complete Right to Rent checks before the tenancy begins.
You may be asked to provide:
- Passport
- Biometric Residence Permit (BRP)
- Visa or immigration documents
- Share code (online immigration check)
Landlords must verify your legal right to rent in the UK.
Always:
- Keep copies of submitted documents
- Keep your tenancy agreement
- Confirm checks were completed properly
Fees you should not be charged
Under current regulations in England, tenants generally should not be charged for:
- Viewing properties
- Referencing fees
- Administration fees
- Contract preparation fees
Permitted fees may include:
- Rent
- Refundable tenancy deposit
- Holding deposit (if applicable)
- Late rent payments (within limits)
- Lost keys (reasonable cost)
Always ask for a breakdown of any requested payment.
Where to get help
If you experience problems, these organisations can help:
- Citizens Advice — free independent advice
- Shelter — housing advice and tenant rights
- Local council housing team — local housing support
- Qualified housing advisers or solicitors
Official overview of private renting: GOV.UK — private renting.
On CheckLondon
Browse rental listings in our property section and read our page on avoiding rental scams.