Renting a room? 8 checks to make before you pay a deposit

Finding the right room is exciting, but it pays to slow down before you hand over any money. These checks help you avoid scams and make sure you know where you stand.

1. View the room in person

Never pay anything, including a holding deposit, for a room you haven’t seen. Rental scams often use photos copied from other ads and a story about why a viewing isn’t possible.

2. Check who you’re dealing with

Ask whether the person is the owner, a letting agent or a tenant subletting. If it’s an agent, check they belong to a redress scheme. It’s reasonable to ask to see proof that the person can let the property.

3. Know the limits on deposits

For most tenancies in England, a holding deposit is capped at one week’s rent, and a tenancy deposit at five weeks’ rent (where the yearly rent is under £50,000). If you’re asked for more, ask why.

4. Make sure your deposit will be protected

If you’re a tenant on an assured shorthold tenancy, your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme and give you the details. Lodgers living with their landlord are usually treated differently, so ask which arrangement you’re being offered.

5. Get the paperwork

Before you move in, you should receive a written agreement and, for most tenancies, the government’s How to rent guide, a gas safety certificate, an electrical safety report and an energy performance certificate (EPC).

6. Be clear on bills

Find out exactly which bills are included, such as energy, water, council tax and broadband, and whether there’s a fair-use limit. Get it in writing.

7. Check the house is safe and legal

Look for working smoke alarms and a carbon monoxide alarm where needed. In a shared house with several tenants, ask whether it’s a licensed HMO (house in multiple occupation).

8. Pay in a way you can trace

Pay by bank transfer only once you’ve viewed the room and agreed terms, and always ask for a receipt. Never pay in cash without one, and never send money to someone you haven’t met.

Rules change from time to time, so check the latest guidance for renters on GOV.UK before you sign anything.

Ready to look? Browse rooms to rent on Benta.