Renting Property in the UK

Finding a place to live in a new city or a foreign country can be difficult and daunting. Whether you are a student, an intern, moving for a new job or perhaps moving to or around the UK for personal reasons, there will be issues to address and questions to be answered. This guide aims to highlight the main considerations for people who want to live in the UK and rent property there. Whatever you're looking for, be it a furnished room, a studio flat, a shared apartment or a private house, we can help you find a solution to your needs.

Remember that rental prices in the UK are generally more expensive than in many other countries; the average price of rented accommodation in the UK is currently £823 a month, approximately €953, and accommodation in popular cities like London is often more than double that amount*. If you enter into a rental contract you must ensure that, in the foreseeable circumstances, you will be able to pay the rent owed. If you fail to do so you could face prosecution. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have followed the correct legal pathways to become a UK resident if you are moving to the UK; if you live and work in the UK without the required legal documentation upholding your right to do so, you may face prosecution or even deportation.

The UK consists of four countries: England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, each with a separate and distinct culture and heritage. Each of these countries is itself divided into council areas, presided over by local government. You may find that the council area where you rent your property influences the costs associated with the property itself; many councils have different council tax rates for example. This guide provides you with general information on renting in the UK, but you will need to do independent research on your specific property market before making a decision. If you need general advice or information you can always contact your local branch of the Citizens Advice Bureau which you will find in the yellow phone book 'Yellow Pages', or online.


This guide is divided into six sections:

• Initial Formalities of Moving to the UK
• Finding a Property to Rent
• Renting in the UK
• Finding Student Accommodation
• Insurance
• Useful Services

 

* Find a Property Rental Index June 2009