Moving in day and the inventory

Moving into a new rental is when things start to feel real. But before you fully settle in, there are a few important steps to go through. Taking a bit of time at the start can save you stress later, especially when it comes to your deposit, day-to-day living, and when the time eventually comes to move out.

What happens on move-in day?

On the day you move in, you’ll usually:

• Collect your keys from the letting agent or landlord
• Confirm your move-in date and tenancy start
• Go through the property condition (often via an inventory)

The inventory is one of the most important parts of the process. It records what’s in the property and its condition at the start of your tenancy, including things like furniture, appliances and any existing marks or damage.

Why the inventory matters

It might feel like admin, but your inventory helps protect your deposit.

At the end of your tenancy, the property’s condition will be checked against this original record. If there are disputes about damage, the inventory becomes key evidence.

To stay on top of it:

• Read it carefully before signing
• Flag anything that looks wrong
• Take your own photos as a backup

The more accurate the record at the start, the easier things are later.

What to check before settling in

Before you unpack, take a few minutes to look around the property with a practical mindset.

Focus on:

• Condition: walls, floors, windows, appliances
• Cleanliness: is everything as expected?
• Safety: check smoke alarms and basic fittings

If anything doesn’t seem right, raise it with the landlord or letting agent as soon as possible so there’s a clear record.

Sort your meter readings and utilities

One of the simplest but most important steps is recording your meter readings as soon as you move in.

This helps ensure you’re only paying for your own usage.

You’ll also want to:

• Contact gas, electricity and water providers
• Set up your council tax account
• Arrange broadband and TV if needed

Make sure your paperwork is in place

Before or at the start of your tenancy, you should have:

• A signed tenancy agreement
• Confirmation your deposit is protected
• Key documents like an EPC and safety certificates

It’s worth keeping digital copies of everything for easy access.

Get to know your new home

Once the essentials are sorted, take some time to familiarise yourself with the practical details:

• Where the stopcock and fuse box are
• Bin collection days
• Any shared spaces or access points
• Local shops, transport and amenities

These small things make everyday life easier once you’re settled. In terms of what you can expect while living in the property, and the rules you and your landlord need to keep to, take a look at our guide to the Renters’ Rights Act, which came into force from May 2026.

A quick checklist for your first day

Here’s a simple way to stay on track:

• Take meter readings
• Review and sign the inventory
• Check keys and access
• Test appliances and safety features
• Notify utility providers
• Keep copies of important documents

FAQs

• What is an inventory and do I have to sign it?

  An inventory is a record of the property’s contents and condition at the start of your tenancy. While signing isn’t always required, agreeing it early helps prevent disputes later. If one isn’t provided by your landlord or letting agent, you can create your own.

• What if I notice damage after moving in?

  Raise it with your landlord or agent as soon as possible and keep evidence, like photos. This helps ensure you’re not held responsible when you move out.

• Do I need to take meter readings?

  Yes. Take readings on your first day so you’re only billed for your own usage going forward.

• When should my deposit be protected?

  Your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days and give you details in writing.

• What bills do I need to set up?

  This usually includes gas, electricity, water, council tax, broadband and possibly a TV licence, depending on your setup. Some rented homes come with some bills included in the advertised rent price, so it’s worth checking this with your landlord or letting agent first.

• Can I change utility providers?

  In many cases you can, but check your tenancy agreement first to see if there are any restrictions or existing arrangements.

• What should I do on my first day in the property?

  Focus on the essentials: check the inventory, take meter readings, test key fixtures and make sure any issues are reported early.