Starting a tenancy after 1 May 2026

A practical overview of the move from finding a tenant to starting the tenancy and move-in.

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Start with current tenancy paperwork

For a new tenancy in England, organise the current written terms before the tenancy is signed or otherwise agreed.

Complete the required checks

Finish the checks that apply to the tenancy and property, including Right to Rent where relevant in England.

Build the move-in record

Keep the final tenancy paperwork together with an inventory or schedule of condition, dated photographs, meter readings and a record of keys.

Keep copies

Store what was supplied, when it was supplied and the final agreed documents. Good records make later factual questions much easier to answer.

Official sources

Assured periodic tenancies: landlord guide - GOV.UK

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