All move types
Renting
Renting a New Home
The most common UK move — and the one with the most hidden admin.
Overview
Moving into a rented property involves referencing requirements, deposit protection, lease overlap periods, and more admin than most people expect. Whether it's your second flat or your sixth, knowing the costs, timeline, and common pitfalls before you sign makes the difference between a smooth move and an expensive one.
Common challenges
- Meeting referencing requirements before your preferred move date is secured
- Managing the deposit gap — new deposit out before old deposit is returned
- Calculating the rent overlap period if leases don't align back-to-back
- Setting up broadband in time — installation lead times are 2–4 weeks
- Updating your address across every organisation that holds it
Typical costs
Tenancy deposit5 weeks' rent
First month's rent upfrontVaries by landlord
Rent overlap period0–14 days' rent
Removal van or man-with-van£150–£600
Broadband setup£0–£50
Typical timeline
Most rented moves complete in 4–8 weeks from offer to key handover. Referencing typically takes 1–2 weeks. Plan broadband and utility transfers at least 2–4 weeks before your move date.