Before you agree to move in anywhere, you should be given enough information to make a clear decision. A good landlord or provider offers this openly. If you have to drag it out of them, treat that as a warning sign.
About the money
- •The rent, and whether bills are included
- •Any service charges and what they cover
- •The deposit and any rent in advance
- •How and when you pay
About the home and your agreement
- •Whether you sign a licence or a tenancy
- •How much notice applies on both sides
- •What is shared and who else lives there
- •The house rules, for example on visitors
- •How repairs are reported and dealt with
About support, if any
If it is supported accommodation, the provider should explain what support you will get, who provides it, and how a referral works if one is needed. Our guide on support levels explains what to expect.
Get it in writing
Ask for the key facts in writing before you commit, so you have a record to check later. On Signpost you can message providers through your account and keep the details in one thread. Our guide on questions to ask before moving in gives you a checklist.
If information is missing
If a provider avoids straight answers about money, your agreement or support, do not feel you have to go ahead. You are allowed to say no and keep looking. Our guide on how to spot a good provider covers the green and red flags.
This guide is general information, not legal advice.