How To Start A New Tenancy
Overview
What this guide covers
This guide covers every legal requirement for starting a new private residential tenancy in England from 1 May 2026. It walks through Right to Rent checks, tenancy agreements, deposit protection, prescribed information, compliance documents and the move-in process.
Who it is for
Any landlord starting a new tenancy in England, whether for the first time or as an experienced landlord updating their process for the Renters' Rights Act.
What this guide does not cover
- –HMO licensing requirements (covered in the HMO Licensing Toolkit)
- –Tenancies in Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland
- –Commercial tenancies
- –Lodger arrangements (different rules apply)
Before you start, you will need:
- ·A property that meets the minimum EPC rating (Band E or above)
- ·A valid Gas Safety Certificate (if gas appliances are present)
- ·A valid EICR (Electrical Installation Condition Report)
- ·A prospective tenant who has passed referencing
- ·A government-approved deposit protection scheme account
When To Use This Guide
Use this guide when:
- ✓You are letting a property to a new tenant
- ✓An existing tenant is renewing and you want to update the agreement
- ✓You are taking over a property with an existing tenant and need to formalise the arrangement
Do not use this guide if:
- ✗You are renewing a tenancy without any changes — existing periodic tenancies continue automatically
- ✗You are letting to a lodger who shares your home (different rules apply)
- ✗You are granting a commercial tenancy