Updated for 2026
Aim to begin 4–8 weeks before you want to move. For school-year relocations (late August/early September), moving in July or early August gives you the best chance of finding suitable family homes.
State school applications normally require you to be living in the home with a UK address before you apply, whereas private/international schools generally do not.
We carry out research just before your tour based on your requirements, budget, and current market availability. You’ll meet (in person or virtually) a home search consultant who prepares the itinerary and can accompany you on viewings. Clear requirements in advance make tours most effective.
This depends on the area and your criteria. Typically, clients view around 5–15 properties per day. Narrow areas or very specific requirements may reduce options.
Tip: Take notes during tours so you remember your favourites later.
The rental market is competitive. Landlords generally expect close to the advertised price, especially for desirable properties. Offers may be considered if a property has been on the market a long time, but substantial discounts are uncommon. Come prepared with a realistic budget.
Minor requests may be possible, but landlords are often reluctant to make major changes to homes they believe are already leasable. Any improvements requested during offer negotiation can affect the landlord’s decision. Be reasonable — too many demands can reduce your chances of securing the property.
Under new tenancy rules, landlords can offer leases but fixed-term contracts are being phased out in favour of open, rolling tenancies. This gives you more flexibility: tenants can stay as long as they want and can end the tenancy by giving two months’ written notice at any time after the initial period.
Landlords can only regain possession where specific legal grounds are met and must give appropriate notice.
Because fixed-term contracts are moving toward rolling tenancies, the classic “break clause” system is less central under the new rules. In practice, you can generally end your tenancy by giving two months’ notice once a tenancy becomes periodic.
However, if you’re in a rental agreement signed before the reforms take effect, check whether a clause is included — otherwise you’ll need the landlord’s agreement to leave early.
Holding deposit: usually up to 1 week’s rent to reserve the property.
Security deposit: capped at 5 weeks’ rent for most tenancies (based on the Tenant Fees Act 2019).
Referencing checks are required for all adult tenants, covering identity and financial suitability. This protects both landlords and tenants by confirming affordability and reliability. Provide details promptly when asked.
Typically, you’ll pay the first month’s rent and a security deposit (up to five weeks’ rent) before move-in. These funds must be cleared into the agent’s account before you can collect the keys.
Rent is usually paid by monthly standing order from your bank account. Agents often ask for a mandate to confirm the payment setup.
A check-in inventory with meter readings protects you from being charged for pre-existing damage. We can arrange this on your behalf.
You must set up utilities and council tax accounts in your name (we can advise and notify suppliers). Council tax is billed yearly; you can pay in instalments, and single occupants usually qualify for a discount.
Broadband is not provided as standard — you’ll need to arrange your own service.
Your UK managing agent or landlord should be your first point of contact for repairs or issues during your tenancy.