You’ve decided that renting a property is better than buying but the hard work is not over yet. Now you have to balance the tenant/landlord relationship as well as keeping up with monthly payments and ensuring your new rented property is kept nice. There are various things that can go wrong so we’ve decided to highlight the most common pitfalls of renting a home and how to avoid them.

One of the most common mistakes that a tenant makes is usually made very early on in the process. As a renter, before you sign on the dotted line, it is vital that you understand and agree with everything outlined in your contract. Ask how long the landlord would ideally like to lease the property for. If they are looking for a two-year lease and you can only commit for one year, then you need to be honest with them and yourself. However, it is important to remember that a landlord may be willing to negotiate so be upfront.

If you are serious about renting a property, then you should visit the neighbourhood at different times of the day to see the change in atmosphere from morning to evening.  Do your research – what is the local town like? What about the crime rate? A 6-month lease can feel very long if the local street is uncomfortable and undesirable. 

When you move in to any rented property, it is important to take pictures of the condition. Inspect every room with the landlord and make a note on the contract regarding any damage that is found and get it signed and dated. You should also take energy meter readings and take note of these. When you move out, once again take meter readings and take pictures of how you leave every room.

It is common for landlords to refuse tenants the option to hang pictures up or paint the walls but this doesn’t mean that the property cannot be personalised and cosy. So many renters make the mistake of living in a shell, instead of a homely haven. There is nothing stopping you from decorating with your own furniture, rugs, placing photo frames on the window ledge and lighting a sweet smelling candle.

As a tenant it is up to you to obtain renters insurance and to be aware of your rights. The best landlords know the law and follow it but this isn’t to say that you shouldn’t check it either. A property has to be safe to rent and landlords also have to give notice if they are entering the property. Citizen’s advice is always on hand to offer information on any disputes as well.

Keeping these common pitfalls at the back of your mind will help you avoid them during the process of renting a property, hopefully resulting in a quick, stress-free and hassle-free process. If you have any questions about renting a property, then please get in touch.