Living in the UK

2. HOUSING

2.2. Private Renting

This is a house, flat or bed-sit rented from a private landlord (not a council property). 


Find a place  

  • Ask friends and family.


  • Search online: If you have access to the internet you can look for properties on the following property sites:



  • Check notice boards (in shop windows, supermarkets, post Office).

  • Check local newspapers.

  • Advertise yourself: Use free websites such as Spare Room or Gumtree or post your advert on social media sites.

  • Letting agents (a company that will help you find a place, and will charge you money)



When you visit a place, ask the landlord:

  • When you can move in

  • Deposit and rent in advance – money you pay before you can move.

  • Rent

  • Council tax

  • Gas/electricity/water bills

  • How and when rent is to be paid (cash/cheque etc)

  • How long you can rent it for


Note:  Find out the Local Housing Allowance (LHA) rates for the area you are looking at properties.