Changes to your move in date

Most renters get a tenancy agreement in writing.

Read any tenancy agreement in full.

Check the start date. It should be the same as you discussed with the landlord or letting agent.

Make sure you are happy with everything before you agree to a 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 is breaking your agreement if you cannot move in from the start of the contract.

Ask them to pay for any costs caused by the delay. For example, moving or storage costs, or to pay for 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.

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

You could try and agree a new start date for the tenancy. Sign a new tenancy agreement with a different start date if the 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 formally 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 or liability to pay rent.

If you've 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.