Renting a new home can be an exciting fresh start—but it’s important to know what you’re getting into. Whether you’re moving into your first rental or switching properties, understanding what to look for can save you stress, money, and future headaches. Here’s a detailed guide to what every tenant should check before signing on the dotted line.

At Pendle Hill Properties, we meet a lot of fantastic tenants who take great care of their homes. But one thing we’ve noticed is that renters often think financial protection is “just for homeowners.”

Moving home isn’t just about the sale price. From legal fees to removals, there are plenty of extra costs to budget for. This guide covers the most commonly overlooked expenses so you can plan with confidence and avoid last-minute surprises. All costs in this guide are just an average and will vary depending on the complexity of the transaction and even where you live in the country so remember to ask for detailed costings.

If your letting agent isn’t delivering, you don’t have to stay stuck. Too many landlords put up with poor communication, missed inspections, or rent arrears going unchased — but switching agents is far easier than most realise, and it could be the smartest decision you make this year.