Moving-in day
Last checked 26 September 2026
Moving day is exciting and busy. Here's what you should have in your hands, and a couple of things worth doing on the day. For the jobs in the days after, see your first week.
Papers you should have
- Your tenancy terms in writing. The law says you must be given these before you sign. They include the rent and when it's due, the deposit amount, the notice you'd need to give, an address for sending us notices, our duty to keep the home in repair and fit to live in, and your right to ask to keep a pet.
- The gas safety record. Where there's gas, a copy of the latest record must reach you before you move in.
- The electrical safety report. A copy of the most recent report must also reach you before you move in.
- The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). You should be given a copy, free of charge.
- Deposit information. Within 30 days of receiving your deposit, a landlord must protect it and tell you which scheme holds it, plus some key details. See your deposit.
Keep them together somewhere safe. Photos on your phone make a handy backup.
What happened to How to Rent?
You may have heard of the government's How to Rent guide. It was withdrawn on 1 May 2026, when the Renters' Rights Act 2025 changed private renting. For tenancies starting on or after that date, what the law requires is the written information about your key terms described above. You may also hear of the Renters' Rights Act Information Sheet 2026. That's for tenancies agreed before 1 May 2026, so you won't normally receive it with a new tenancy.
On the day
- Read the meters. Take your gas and electricity readings on the day you move in and give them to the current supplier. A dated photo of each meter is ideal. Our first week guide covers water and Council Tax.
- Know where you stand with energy. Until you choose a tariff, you'll be on the current supplier's standard one. If you'd like to switch, you can once the home is yours. Not sure who the supplier is? Citizens Advice explains how to find out.
- Check you have everything you need to get in, and try each key or fob before the day is over.
Find out more
This guide is general information about renting in England, not legal advice. If you're one of our tenants and have a question, just get in touch.
Looking for a home with us?
Join our waiting list