Renting safely

Six rules that will keep your deposit safe.

Most people you meet here are honest, but a few aren't. These habits protect you either way.

1. 01

   Never pay before you visit

   The most common scam is a "token amount" to hold a flat you have only seen in photos. Real owners and flatmates let you visit first. If someone pushes you to pay before that, walk away.

2. 02

   Meet the person who will sign the agreement

   Check that the person showing you the place is the owner or a tenant with permission to sublet. Ask to see an ID and a utility bill or the current rental agreement in the same name.

3. 03

   Get everything in writing

   Rent, deposit, notice period, maintenance, and what happens to the deposit when you leave should all be in a rental agreement. Pay the deposit by bank transfer, never in cash, and keep the receipt.

4. 04

   Spot a broker in disguise

   If the "owner" has several flats in different areas, can't answer basic questions about the building, or mentions a fee at the end, it's probably a broker. Report the listing and we'll look into it.

5. 05

   Take photos when you move in

   Photograph every room, appliance and wall on day one, and share them with the owner. It is the easiest way to get your full deposit back.

6. 06

   Trust your gut with flatmates

   Meet in person, ideally at the flat. Talk about work hours, cleanliness, guests and how you will split bills. A ten-minute honest conversation saves months of awkwardness.