Tenants’ Letting Guide

Renting a property in East London? This guide from Redbridge Property covers everything you need to know — from searching for a home to understanding your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

How to Find Your Next Rental Property

Register with Redbridge Property to receive instant alerts when properties matching your requirements become available. The East London rental market moves quickly — properties in areas like Ilford, Barking, Seven Kings, and Forest Gate are frequently let within days of coming to market. Being registered means you hear about properties before they are widely advertised. You can also browse our current listings on Rightmove and OnTheMarket.

What to Expect During Referencing

Once your offer to rent a property is accepted, we will ask you to complete a reference application. This typically involves:

• Identity check: Passport or driving licence
• Right to Rent check: We are legally required to verify your right to rent in the UK — this is a government requirement under the Immigration Act 2014
• Employment reference: Confirmation of your salary and employment status; typically, gross annual income of 2.5–3× the annual rent is required
• Previous landlord reference: Confirmation you paid rent on time and maintained the property
• Credit check: To assess your financial history

If you are self-employed or your income is complex, we will advise you on what supporting documentation is likely to be needed.

Your Tenancy Agreement

Most private rentals in England begin as an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST). Under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, all new tenancies are now periodic from day one — there is no fixed-term period, meaning you can give two months’ notice to leave at any time. Your landlord can only end your tenancy using one of the prescribed grounds set out in Schedule 2 of the Housing Act 1988.

Read your tenancy agreement carefully before signing. It will set out the rent amount, payment date, responsibilities for bills and maintenance, permitted use of the property, and the notice requirements for both parties.

Deposits and the Tenant Fees Act 2019

We operate in full compliance with the Tenant Fees Act 2019. This means:

• We do not charge tenants any fees for referencing, administration, or tenancy set-up
• Your security deposit is capped at five weeks’ rent (for annual rent under £50,000)
• Your deposit will be protected in a government-approved scheme (DPS, MyDeposits, or TDS) within 30 days of payment
• You will receive prescribed information about the scheme within 30 days
• A holding deposit (maximum one week’s rent) may be requested to take the property off the market while referencing is completed

Moving In

On the day you move in, you will receive a check-in inventory — a detailed record of the property’s condition and contents. Review it carefully and note any discrepancies in writing within the timeframe specified. This document is essential if there is any dispute about the deposit at the end of the tenancy. You should also receive gas safety and electrical installation certificates, and a copy of the government’s How to Rent guide.

During Your Tenancy

Pay your rent on time and in full. Notify us promptly of any maintenance issues — we will arrange for repairs to be carried out by qualified contractors. You are responsible for general upkeep, including keeping the property clean, maintaining the garden if applicable, and not causing damage beyond fair wear and tear. You may not sublet the property or make alterations without the landlord’s written consent.

Ending Your Tenancy

Give us two months’ written notice when you wish to leave. Ensure the property is returned in the same condition as when you moved in (allowing for fair wear and tear), all rubbish is removed, and all keys are returned. A thorough clean before check-out will significantly reduce the likelihood of any deductions from your deposit.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much deposit will I need to pay?

Your security deposit is capped at five weeks’ rent for properties with an annual rent under £50,000. It must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days.

Can I have pets in the property?

This depends on the landlord’s permission, which must be given in writing. Under the Renters’ Rights Act 2025, landlords cannot unreasonably refuse a request to keep a pet, but they may ask you to take out a pet damage insurance policy. Always ask before acquiring a pet.

Who is responsible for repairs?

Your landlord is responsible for the structure and exterior of the property, heating and hot water systems, gas and electrical installations, and appliances provided with the property. You are responsible for minor maintenance such as replacing lightbulbs, keeping drains clear, and maintaining the garden.

Can my landlord enter the property without notice?

No. Your landlord or their agent must give you at least 24 hours’ written notice before entering the property (except in a genuine emergency). Your right to quiet enjoyment of the property is protected by law.

What happens to my deposit at the end of the tenancy?

Once you leave, your landlord has 10 days to return your deposit or raise a dispute. Deductions can only be made for damage beyond fair wear and tear, unpaid rent, or cleaning costs if the property is not returned in a clean condition. If you disagree with proposed deductions, the deposit protection scheme provides a free dispute resolution service.

How do I report a repair?

Contact Redbridge Property on 020 8590 2277 or email info@redbridgeproperty.uk. For emergencies such as gas leaks or structural damage, call us immediately. Always report repairs in writing so there is a clear record.