What Should I do when I move in?

• Make sure everyone has paid the deposit, rent and arranged their guarantor, if needed. If someone has not done so, they will need to make arrangements and if the contract says so (most do) the landlord can refuse entry until they do.  If someone has not paid, other tenants may have to. If someone is not moving in you may need to cover their share until a new tenant is found.
• Check the whole property again. Take pictures of anything that needs fixing, or if the property is dirty so you have evidence if you need to raise this with the landlord later. Remember to check the heating, even if it is summer when you move in.
• Check that you know how to use the fire/burglar alarm, and where the electricity breaker, gas cut off (normally by the meters) and water stop cock is. 
• Read the meters and take pictures of the readings to make sure you don't get charged for the previous tenants bills. Contact the utility companies and set up bills.
• Make sure you have agreed who will have which room and that everyone is happy (as this can cause disputes later)
• Make sure you have any essentials that are not provided by the Landlord - pots and pans, cutlery, bedding. 

What should my Landlord do when I move in?

• Your landlord should tell you clearly and accurately if there are any issues such as unpaid rent or deposits, or incomplete work, and what you need to do.
• Make sure everyone is given a key and the household has a copy of the contract
• Make sure you have a copy of the Energy Performance Certificate, Gas Safety certificate, HMO license certificate and How to Rent Guide.
• Protect your deposit within 30 days of receiving it, and give you the information about the protection scheme they have used.