How to rent a room
Renting a room in a shared house is usually quicker and cheaper than taking a whole flat, but it still pays to know the steps. Here is how to go from searching to moving in.
1. Work out your budget
Add up the rent plus a share of the bills — check carefully whether a listing is "bills included" or not, as it makes a large difference. Set aside money for a deposit, which is capped at five weeks' rent for most tenancies, and remember your first month's rent is usually due before you move in.
2. Search and shortlist
Search by area, station or postcode and filter by price, room type, move-in date and whether the household suits you. Save a search so new matches reach you automatically, and shortlist rooms rather than trying to hold them all in your head.
3. Message and arrange a viewing
Contact the landlord through Rooms.net. Ask about the household, the length of the tenancy, notice periods and what the bills typically come to. Always arrange to see the room in person.
4. View before you commit
See the whole property, meet the people already living there, and ask to see the gas safety certificate and Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) — a landlord is required to provide both. Never pay a deposit or holding fee for a room you have not stood in.
5. Apply and sign
Once you have found the right room, apply and — if accepted — sign the tenancy agreement. Read it before you sign: check the rent, the deposit, the length of the fixed term and how much notice each side must give. Your deposit should be placed in a government-approved protection scheme within 30 days, and you must be told which one.
Know your rights on fees
Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, landlords and agents in England cannot charge you for referencing, inventories or drawing up the contract. If you are asked to pay an admin fee, something is wrong. Read our renting safely guide before you part with any money.