- Check the property
- Check and return the inventory
- Check the appliances
- Set up the utilities
- Check your rubbish and recycling collection days
Check the property
Once you have your keys and walk through the door, one of the first things you should do is to have a quick look around the house to make sure everything is fine and there are no obvious problems.
If there is anything tell your landlord or the managing agency immediately.
Check and return your inventory
You should be provided with an inventory. This is a list detailing the condition of the property and its contents before you moved into the house. Any damage should be noted on the inventory. It’s really important that you go through the house checking that what the inventory says is correct, as this is your opportunity to highlight any damage not recorded. You will often do this with the landlord or agent.
If there is anything not noted on the inventory make a note of it, taking photos if necessary. If there are any disputes at the end of the tenancy you will then have proof of the condition of items at the beginning of the tenancy. Ensure that you return a signed copy of the inventory to the landlord and keep a copy for your own records.
Check the appliances
Check that there are instruction manuals for all appliances, including washing machines, boilers, fridges and the oven. Make sure you know how to use them correctly – you can be charged for repairs caused by using them incorrectly. Ask your landlord or agent if you are unsure.
Set up your utilities
Find out where the gas, electricity and water meters are and take readings as soon as you move in. You may or may not have a water meter. Check with the landlord or water company if you are not sure.
You will usually be responsible for paying for utilities such as gas, electricity and water. You must set up an account with each supplier. You should be able to get the details of the current supplier from the landlord or agency.
Agree how the bills are going to be paid. If you are on a joint tenancy it is very important to set up the account in all of your names so you are equally liable.
Contact the supplier with the appropriate meter reading and ask to set up an account.
You might have a key, or prepayment meter. In this case you will still need to set up an account in your name(s). You can charge the key or card in any shop bearing the Paypoint symbol. Find your nearest Paypoint shop.
Shop around for the best deal. The easiest way to do this is probably through a comparison website such as Moneysupermarket or uSwitch.
Sometimes you’ll get better deals if you choose the same supplier for both gas and electricity. However as a courtesy please advise your landlord that you have changed suppliers.
It’s a good idea to find out where the master switches are for the gas and electricity and the stop cock for the water. You might need them if there is a leak or electrical fault.
Check your rubbish and recycling collection days
When you move in, make sure that you find out when the rubbish and recycling collection days are for your street. You can find out by checking your local authority website. See Useful links and contacts
