Move-In Day
What to do on move-in day to start the tenancy correctly.
The move-in process
Move-in day sets the tone for the entire tenancy. A well-organised move-in reduces disputes, establishes clear expectations and creates the documentary record you will need if things go wrong later.
Before handing over the keys, confirm that all compliance documents have been served: the current How to Rent guide, the gas safety certificate, the EICR, the EPC and the deposit prescribed information. Failure to serve these documents correctly can prevent you from serving a valid Section 8 notice later.
- Serve the current How to Rent guide (check GOV.UK for the latest version)
- Provide the gas safety certificate (must be current — renewed annually)
- Provide the EICR (valid for up to 5 years)
- Provide the EPC (valid for 10 years, minimum E rating required)
- Serve deposit prescribed information within 30 days of receiving the deposit
- Complete the move-in inventory and have the tenant sign it
- Take meter readings with the tenant present and photograph them
- Notify utility companies and the council of the new tenancy
The move-in inventory
The inventory is your most important document for protecting against deposit disputes. It must record the condition of every room, every item of furniture and every fixture and fitting at the start of the tenancy. Photographs are essential.
The tenant should be given the opportunity to review and sign the inventory. If they disagree with any entry, note their comments. A signed inventory is much harder to dispute at check-out.
Use a professional inventory clerk for furnished properties or high-value lets. The cost is small compared to the protection it provides in a deposit dispute.