When you live in a private rented property as a tenant you have specific responsibilities.

You must:

  • pay the agreed rent
  • pay other charges and bills, for example, council tax and utility bills
  • give your landlord access to the property to make repairs or inspections
  • repair or pay for any damage you cause  
  • be considerate to your neighbours
  • regularly test your smoke alarms

Check your rights and responsibilities (GOV.UK).

Read your tenancy agreement carefully to make sure you understand:  

  • how much the rent is and how and when you must pay it
  • if any bills are included in the rent or not
  • how long the tenancy is for
  • how much the deposit is and how and when you must pay it
  • what's included in the inventory

Make sure your landlord gives you:

  • a copy of 'How to rent: the checklist for renting in England'
  • deposit protection paperwork
  • the energy performance certificate for the property
  • a gas safety certificate before you move in
  • an electrical safety report
  • evidence that smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are working

When you move in, make a note of the:

  • meter readings so you do not pay for the previous tenant's bills
  • landlord or letting agent's contact details

Agree an inventory with the landlord and keep a copy.