Your Essential Guide to Renting in London as an International Tenant

2025-09-18

Relocating to London is an exciting step, whether for work, study, or lifestyle. But for an international tenant, navigating the UK rental market can be challenging. Understanding your rights, costs, and obligations before arriving will help you secure the right property and avoid unnecessary stress. This guide explains what international tenants need to know before moving to London — from legal checks to budgeting and area research — so you can approach your move with confidence.

1. Understand Your Right to Rent

In England, landlords and letting agents are legally required to check that every tenant over 18 has the right to rent before a tenancy can start.

According to GOV.UK’s Right to Rent guidance:

UK and Irish citizens can usually prove their status with a valid or expired passport.
International tenants may need to provide a share code from GOV.UK or original immigration documents showing their visa or immigration status (e.g. work visa, student visa, or settled status).
If your visa or right to stay is time-limited, follow-up checks may be required during the tenancy.

Failing to provide valid documentation can delay or prevent you from renting, so ensure your documents are prepared before starting your property search.

2. Budget for More Than Rent

One of the most common mistakes international tenants make when moving to London is underestimating the full cost of renting. Beyond monthly rent, you should plan for:

Tenancy deposit: Usually five or six weeks’ rent, protected by a government-approved deposit scheme.
Utilities: Gas, electricity, water, and broadband.
Council tax: Paid monthly to your local authority (unless exempt as a full-time student).
Service charges: Especially in luxury developments, this can include concierge services, gyms, and communal areas.
Up-front costs: Such as right-to-rent checks, referencing, or utility connection fees.

The GOV.UK How to Rent Checklist is a valuable resource for understanding typical tenant costs and responsibilities.

3. Set Up Utilities and Services Early

Once you have secured a property, there are several steps to take immediately to avoid billing issues:

Record meter readings for gas, electricity, and water on move-in day.
Notify suppliers that you have moved in and confirm payment arrangements.
Set up broadband and TV licences as soon as possible, as installation lead times can vary.
Confirm who is responsible for bills with your landlord or letting agent.

This will ensure you only pay for the utilities you actually use.

4. Check Property Condition and Safety

Before signing a tenancy agreement, review the property’s legal and safety requirements:

Verify that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are fitted and working.
Review the property’s Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) to estimate running costs.
Check the inventory list carefully, noting any damage or wear to avoid deposit disputes later.
Ask for clarity on repairs, maintenance responsibilities, and rules around decorating or making changes.

These checks are crucial for protecting your rights as a tenant.

5. Research the Area Thoroughly

London is made up of many distinct neighbourhoods, each offering a different lifestyle. Research should include:

Transport links: Commute times, night transport, access to airports.
Local amenities: Shops, gyms, schools, green spaces, restaurants.
Rental comparisons: Review similar properties in the same area to ensure fair pricing.
Management quality: If possible, speak to previous tenants about their experience.

To get started, you can explore some of CHBL’s area guides here, covering key London locations, transport links, and lifestyle insights.