Unlocking the door and becoming a first time renter is a milestone that’s equal parts thrilling and terrifying. It’s the taste of freedom, with a side of ‘where did all my money go?’. Whether you’re a bright-eyed student or a young professional taking your first step on the career ladder, this guide is your map to finding the perfect first room.
Preparing for your first rental
Before you start browsing listings, take a good look at your finances. As a first time renter, work out how much you can afford to spend on rent each month. As a rule of thumb, try to keep your housing costs to no more than 30% of your income. Remember that you’ll need to budget for bills too, including council tax, utilities and internet. Don’t forget about food and travel costs either.
As a first time renter, creating a budget spreadsheet can be a helpful way to visualise your income and expenses. Include categories for all your expected costs, and don’t forget to factor in some savings if possible. It’s always good to have a financial buffer for unexpected expenses.
Here’s what a spreadsheet might look like:
| Category | Estimated monthly cost (£) |
| Salary | 2,000 |
| Other Income | 200 |
| Total Income | 2,200 |
| Expenses | |
| Rent | 600 |
| Council Tax | 120 |
| Utilities (Electricity, Gas, Water) | 100 |
| Internet | 30 |
| Mobile Phone | 25 |
| Groceries | 200 |
| Transport (Public/Car) | 150 |
| Entertainment | 100 |
| Savings | 200 |
| Total Expenses | 1,525 |
| Remaining | 675 |
Next, familiarise yourself with different types of rental agreements. Most private rentals in the UK use assured shorthold tenancy agreements (AST), typically running for six or 12 months. Student halls often use licence agreements instead. Knowing the basics of these agreements will give you a clearer picture of what to expect when it comes time to sign on the dotted line.
Take some time to research the average rent prices in your target area—it will give you a realistic idea of how much you’ll need to pay and determine if your budget is feasible. Keep in mind that rent prices can vary significantly depending on the location, size and condition of the property.
Average room prices in the UK are around £700 per month.
Searching for the perfect room for rent
With your budget sorted, it’s time to start your search. There are a bunch of different online platforms where you can look for a room, such as property portals Rightmove and Zoopla. Another option is Room For Rent, where you can filter your search by location, price and amenities to narrow down your options. Don’t forget to set up email alerts for new listings that match your criteria, as the rental market can move quickly, especially in popular areas.
When browsing listings, pay close attention to the details. Check all the photos, look at the location on a map and note any bills included in the rent. Be sure to read the full description—important information is often tucked away in the text.
If you’re a student, don’t forget to check what your university offers in terms of accommodation. Many universities have partnerships with private landlords or offer their own off-campus housing options. These can sometimes be more affordable and come with added security.
Don’t underestimate the power of word of mouth either. Ask friends, colleagues or classmates if they know of any available rooms. Sometimes the best deals aren’t advertised in the obvious places and come through personal connections.
Social media can also be valuable in your search. Many areas have Facebook groups dedicated to housing, where landlords and current tenants post about available rooms. Just be sure to exercise caution and verify any listings before committing.
Be wary of scams, though. If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Never transfer money without seeing the property and meeting the landlord in person. Be particularly cautious of landlords who claim to be out of the country or who pressure you to make a quick decision.
What to look for during room visits
Once you’ve shortlisted some potential rooms, it’s time for viewings. This is your chance to really get a feel for the place and ask plenty of questions. Try to schedule viewings during daylight hours so you can get a clear view of the property.
Look at the location
Location is key. Is it close to your work or university? Are there good transport links? What are the local amenities like? Take a walk around the neighbourhood to get a feel for the area. Check out local shops, cafes and green spaces. A great room in an inconvenient location could quickly lose its charm.
Be safe
Safety should be a top priority too. Check that the doors and windows have good locks, and that there are working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Don’t be afraid to ask about the safety of the neighbourhood, especially if you’re new to the area. Look for street lighting and ask about any security measures in place for the property.
What’s the property’s condition?
Take a good look at the condition of the room and the property as a whole. Are there signs of damp or mould? Do all the appliances work? What’s the water pressure like in the shower? These might seem like small details now, but they can have a big impact on your day-to-day life. Don’t be afraid to turn on taps, flush toilets, and test light switches during your viewing.
Is there enough space?
Space is another important factor. Is there enough storage for your belongings? Will your furniture fit? If you need a workspace, is there room for a desk? Take measurements if you’re unsure, and don’t forget to consider things like natural light and ventilation.
Meet the current tenants
If you’re moving into a shared house, try to meet your potential housemates if possible. Ask about their schedules and lifestyles, and how bills and chores are split. A harmonious living situation can make all the difference to your renting experience. If you can’t meet them in person, see if you can arrange a video call.
Property cleanliness
Pay attention to the overall cleanliness and maintenance of the property. While you shouldn’t expect perfection, a well-maintained property is a good sign that the landlord takes their responsibilities seriously.
Questions to ask during your viewing
Don’t be shy about asking questions during your viewing. Here are some important ones to consider:
- How much is the deposit?
- What bills are included in the rent?
- Who’s responsible for repairs and maintenance?
- Are pets allowed?
- Can I decorate?
- Is there parking available?
- How is the heating controlled?
- Is there a cleaning schedule for shared areas?
- How is the internet connection?
- Are there any restrictions on guests?
- Has the property had any major problems in the past?
- How long have previous tenants typically stayed?
Take photos and notes during your visit—doing so will help you remember the details of each property when you’re comparing options later. And don’t rush your decision. If possible, sleep on it before making a commitment.
Understanding Your rights and responsibilities as a first time renter
As a tenant, you have certain rights. These include the right to live in a property that’s safe and in good repair, to have your deposit protected in a government-approved scheme and to be protected from unfair eviction and rent increases.
You also have the right to quiet enjoyment of the property, which means your landlord can’t just show up unannounced. They need to give you at least 24 hours’ notice before visiting, except in emergencies.
But with rights come responsibilities. You’ll need to pay your rent on time, keep the property clean and tidy, and be considerate to your neighbours. You should report any needed repairs promptly and allow your landlord reasonable access for inspections or repairs.
You’re also responsible for paying bills unless they’re included in your rent. This typically includes council tax (unless you’re a full-time student), utilities and TV licence. Make sure you understand exactly what you’re responsible for before signing any agreement.
Knowing both your rights and responsibilities as a first time renter will help the tenancy be a smooth one. If you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a housing charity or citizens advice bureau. Organisations like Shelter offer free, impartial advice to renters.
Moving in: what to expect as a first first time renter
You’ve found your perfect room and signed the agreement. Now comes the exciting part—moving in. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get started as a first time renter:
- Take metre readings for gas and electricity
- Check the inventory and report any discrepancies
- Test all appliances, locks and safety equipment
- Set up your bills (if not included in the rent)
- Register to vote at your new address
- Arrange contents insurance
Some of these may not apply if you’re moving into a house share that has existing tenants. In that case, you’ll need to check with the current renters, although it’s likely you’ll start contributing to monthly bills from the move-in date.
Regardless of the rental type, you’ll typically need to pay your first month’s rent and deposit when you first move. Make sure you get receipts for any payments. Your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days and provide you with the details.
To help you settle in quickly, make your room feel like home as soon as possible. Unpack your belongings, add some personal touches like photos or plants and introduce yourself to your housemates.
Take some time to familiarise yourself with your new surroundings. Locate important things like the fuse box, stopcock (to turn off the water in an emergency) and how to adjust the heating. If there’s a garden, clarify who’s responsible for maintaining it.
Living with housemates
If you’re a first time renter sharing a house, good communication is key to a harmonious living situation. It’s a good idea to agree on a cleaning schedule for shared areas, discuss preferences for quiet hours, and be clear about sharing (or not sharing) food and household items (again, if you’re moving into an existing setup, many of these guidelines will be in place).
Consider having a house meeting early on to establish some ground rules. This might cover things like guests, noise levels and use of shared spaces. It’s easier to have these conversations upfront rather than waiting for issues to arise.
Be considerate about shared facilities. Clean up after yourself in the kitchen, don’t hog the bathroom and be mindful of noise levels, especially late at night or early in the morning.
Remember that your housemates don’t have to be your best friends, but maintaining a cordial relationship makes for a much more pleasant living environment. Make an effort to get to know them, but also respect their privacy and personal space.
Dealing with problems as a first time renter
Even with the best preparation, issues can sometimes arise during your tenancy. Common problems include repairs not being carried out, disputes over the deposit or disagreements with housemates.
If you encounter problems, start by checking your tenancy agreement to understand your rights and obligations. Always communicate with your landlord or letting agent in writing, and keep records of all correspondence and any issues. If there’s a problem with the property, take photos or videos as evidence.
For issues with housemates, try to have a calm, honest conversation first. Many problems can be resolved through open communication. If that doesn’t work, you might need to involve your landlord.
Most problems can be resolved through open communication and a willingness to compromise. If an issue persists, however, don’t hesitate to seek advice from a housing charity or citizens advice bureau. They can provide guidance on your rights and the best course of action.
Renewing or ending your tenancy
As your tenancy end date approaches, you’ll need to decide whether to stay or move on. If you want to stay, contact your landlord well in advance to discuss renewing your tenancy. This is also a good time to negotiate any changes to the terms, such as rent increases.
If you decide to move out, make sure to give proper notice as specified in your agreement. This is typically one month for a rolling contract, but check your agreement to be sure. Clean the property thoroughly, return all keys and take final metre readings.
Whether you’re staying or going, it’s important to leave on good terms. Pay all your bills and rent up to date. Your landlord should return your deposit within 10 days of agreeing on the amount to be returned. If there are any deductions, these should be justified and itemised.
If you disagree with any deductions, you can challenge them through the deposit protection scheme. Make sure you have evidence to support your case, such as the inventory from when you moved in and photos of the property’s condition when you left.
Ready to start your search?
Now that you’re armed with the right information to get you started as a first time renter, it’s time to start your search. Head over to Room For Rent to find your perfect first room. With listings across the UK, there are plenty of options that suit different needs and budgets.
Renting your first room is an exciting step towards independence. It might feel overwhelming at times, but with proper preparation and knowledge, you can navigate the process successfully. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice when you need it, and trust your instincts when viewing properties.
Take your time, do your research, and don’t feel pressured to take the first room you see. The right place is out there, waiting for you to call it home.
