Always check the property you're going to rent before you move in. Make sure everything is in good order. If it is not, ask the landlord to make the necessary repairs.
If a Tenancy Agreement form is drawn up between you and your landlord, read it carefully before signing it, and in particular check details that cover matters such as repairs, payment of council tax and permission to sublet.
If you accept the conditions of the agreement and then break any of them later, the landlord may be able to sue you for damages and obtain an order for your eviction.
The landlord or his agent may reserve the right to examine the property to make sure that it is being kept in good condition. This must be done at reasonable times and always with a prior warning to you of the visits. If the visits become too frequent, without any good reason, the landlord may be guilty of harassment.
If you pay rent weekly, you must have a rent book with the name and address of the landlord and his agent, and the rent and rates due. If you pay cash, make sure you get a receipt.
Pay the rent promptly. If you don't pay it within 21 days of the due date, the landlord can seek a court order for your eviction. But if by the time the case is brought to court you have paid up the arrears, an eviction notice cannot be served.
You must leave the premises in good condition, but you're not liable for the sort of wear and tear that results from normal use. The landlord is required to repair the exterior structure of the property and to maintain the heating, plumbing, gas and electrical fittings. But you must report faults and repair minor ones, such as a blown light bulb or a detached door handle.
When leaving you must give 4 weeks notice in writing if you pay rent weekly or monthly, or 3 months if you pay quarterly. However, you can simply leave by moving out and returning the keys to the landlord. If the landlord accepts them, he has agreed to your leaving.
