How to Rent a Property: Tips for Tenants
When you rent a home, it’s easy to assume every issue is the landlord’s job. But the law expects tenants to “act in a tenant-like manner.”
In plain English, that means looking after the property as if it were your own. Knowing what’s down to you not only avoids disputes, but it also protects your deposit and keeps your home in good shape.
Everyday Responsibilities When Renting a Property
Paying your rent
Simple but essential. Rent must always be paid in full and on time. Falling behind can put your tenancy at risk.
Unblocking drains
If the blockage is caused by you, it’s your job to clear it. Avoid pouring oil, food waste or coffee grounds down the sink, and regularly clear hair from bathroom plugholes.
Replacing lightbulbs
Bulbs are consumables, so if one goes, you’re expected to replace it.
Maintaining the garden
Lawns should be kept tidy, hedges trimmed, and weeds managed. If your council charges for a garden waste bin, it’s your responsibility to cover that or take waste to the tip.
Paying household bills
You’ll usually cover gas, electricity, water, council tax, broadband and any other utilities listed in your tenancy agreement.
Keeping the property secure
Always lock doors and windows. If you’re going away for a while, let your landlord know — some insurance policies require it.
Reporting Repairs
You don’t need to fix structural problems or serious faults, but you must report them quickly. Something as small as a dripping tap might not feel urgent, but if left for months it could cause expensive damage. Prompt reporting protects you and your landlord.
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Protecting Your Deposit
At the end of your tenancy, you’re expected to return the property in the same condition you received it, aside from fair wear and tear.
Neglecting small jobs during your tenancy often leads to deductions from your deposit later.
Before You Start Renting
Most tenants in the UK rent under an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST).
This agreement gives you rights but also sets out responsibilities. Before signing, make sure you:
- Check affordability
Aim for rent that’s no more than 35% of your take home pay. - Research the area
Think about transport, shops, parking and even insurance costs. - Prepare your documents
ID, proof of right to rent, employment details and credit history are usually needed. - Consider if you’ll need a guarantor
This can be essential if your income or credit history is limited.
Advice for Tenants Renting a Property
As a tenant, looking after a rented property isn’t complicated. Pay what you owe, stay on top of everyday maintenance and report issues as soon as they arise.
Do that, and you’ll protect your deposit, stay on good terms with your landlord and enjoy your home with peace of mind.
And if you’re ever unsure about what counts as your responsibility, or need support with renting, our lettings team is here to guide you in finding a property to rent in Worcester.
My experience as a university student was extremely poor. I felt exploited and unsupported throughout my tenancy, particularly when issues arose with other tenants in the house share. I experienced physical abuse from other tenants and felt that Platinum Properties failed to provide me with the protection and support I reasonably expected from my landlord/agent. I was left feeling unsafe in what should have been my home.
I was also extremely unhappy with how my deposit was handled. I believe deductions were unfair and did not feel that my concerns were dealt with appropriately. The property was already in a poor and tired condition when I moved in, yet I was later charged £50 from my deposit for the condition of the window area. The attached photo shows the dirt and staining around the window frame and sill.
The quality of the furniture was another major issue. Several items felt extremely cheap and poorly made, with furniture breaking during what I consider to be normal, basic use. This created additional frustration and expense during an already difficult tenancy.
Overall, I felt that the company prioritised its own interests rather than the wellbeing and concerns of its tenants. As a university student, I expected a safe and reasonably maintained place to live, along with fair treatment when problems occurred. Unfortunately, that was not my experience.
I would recommend that prospective tenants thoroughly document the condition of the property and furniture when moving in, keep records of all communication, and carefully check the terms surrounding deposits before signing a tenancy.
Response: You very much had the power to remove them, I provided evidence of them breaking multiple sections of the tenancy. Platinum properties values their income over the wellbeing of their tenants.
and he proved to find some really great properties around Worcester. He was friendly, polite and made the house viewings work seamlessly. Would really recommend this company.
on a very cold day and night.
We viewed a property near Worcester. He did not rush us at all. He took extra time to ensure we explored the property fully. He had good knowledge of the property. By far, his attitude and enthusiasm was the best we have experienced to date from any estate agent. We look forward to working with him.
By working with them as a 'partner' with this investment, I know that legally, I am safe as a Landlord and that also my tenants have the peace of mind they also have access to the support and protection of the wonderful team at Platinum. Thanks personally to Helen, Josh, Harry, & Caroline. I highly recommend their services.