Changes to your move in date

Most renters get a tenancy agreement in writing.

Read your tenancy agreement closely.

Check your tenancy start date.

Make sure you are happy with everything before you agree to the tenancy.

If your landlord delays your move in date

Sometimes landlords want to delay the start of a tenancy. For example, if:

• the property needs repairs or cleaning

• the previous tenant has not moved out yet

Your landlord breaks your agreement if you cannot move in from the start of your contract.

Ask them to pay for any costs caused by the delay.

For example,

• moving or storage costs

• somewhere else to live if you cannot stay in your current home

Ask if they can give you somewhere to stay until the property is ready.

Or you could ask them to give you back any money you have paid so you can find another property.

Use our letter template if you need help with costs or alternative housing.

If you want to delay moving in

You're responsible for rent from the start of the tenancy even if you have not moved in.

Your agreement is legally binding even if the tenancy has not started.

You could try and agree a new start date for the tenancy.

Sign a new tenancy agreement with a different start date if your landlord agrees.

If you only need to delay by a few days it may be easier to keep the contract the same if you can afford to start paying rent.

Ending your tenancy before you move in

Tenancies agreed in advance are usually binding even if you do not move in.

If you do not think you agreed to a tenancy, find emails or messages from the landlord or agent to show this.

Ask the landlord or agent to confirm in writing that:

• there is no tenancy

• you do not have to pay rent

If you paid a holding deposit you might not get it back if you decide not to rent the property.

Find out what to do if you cannot move in.