How to Rent in the UK – Step-by-Step Guide for International Students

Step 1: Understand How Renting Works in the UK

Most students in the UK rent private accommodation such as shared houses, flats, or studios. You’ll normally sign a fixed-term tenancy agreement lasting between 6 to 12 months.

Before you start, make sure you understand your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

Official Government Resource:

Read the “How to Rent” Guide on GOV.UK

Step 2: Prepare Your Documents

To rent a property in the UK, you’ll need to show proof of identity, income, and immigration status. Here’s what you’ll usually need:

  • Passport
  • UK Visa (e.g., Student Visa / Tier 4 Visa)
  • University Offer Letter or Enrolment Confirmation
  • UK Guarantor details (see Step 5 for options if you don’t have a UK Guarantor)
  • Proof of funds (bank statement, sponsorship letter, or scholarship confirmation if available)
  • Previous landlord reference (if available)

Step 3: Complete a Right to Rent Check

Before you move into any property, UK law requires you to prove that you have the right to rent.

If you have an immigration status that can be checked online, you’ll need to generate a Right to Rent Share Code.

How to Get Your Right to Rent Share Code:

  1. Go to www.gov.uk/prove-right-to-rent
  2. Click “Start now” and follow the steps
  3. You’ll need your Biometric Residence Permit (BRP), Date of Birth, and Visa details
  4. Once complete, you’ll receive a Share Code — send this to SPL Agency UK so we can complete your check quickly and securely

Step 4: Find and Enquire with SPL Agency UK

Browse our available properties and contact us to arrange viewings (in-person or virtual).

Our team will guide you through the rental process and help you find a property that suits your needs, budget, and location preferences.

Step 5: Understanding UK Guarantors

A UK guarantor is someone who agrees to pay your rent if you’re unable to. Most landlords require one if you’re a student or international tenant without a UK credit history.

If you HAVE a UK guarantor, they will need to:

Essential Requirements:

  • Be a UK resident (aged 21+)
  • Have a good credit history
  • Earn at least 2.5-3 times the annual rent

Income Example:

For a property with £800/month rent:

  • Annual rent = £9,600
  • Required guarantor income = £24,000-£28,800 per year

Documentation Required:

  • Proof of identity (passport or driving licence)
  • Proof of address (utility bill or council tax statement from the last 3 months)
  • Proof of income (recent payslips, bank statements, or employment letter)
  • Credit check consent (they’ll need to pass a credit reference check)
  • Signed guarantor agreement (legal document provided by SPL Agency UK)

Note: While homeownership is preferred by most landlords, it’s not always mandatory if the guarantor has strong income and good credit history.

Don’t have a UK guarantor? You have TWO options:

Option 1: Use SPL’s Guarantor Service (Monthly Payment Plan)

We’ve partnered with a trusted organisation that acts as a UK guarantor for international students. Through this partnership, SPL Agency UK can arrange a verified guarantor for you at a discounted monthly cost.

Benefits:

  • No need to pay 6–12 months’ rent upfront
  • Your tenancy application is processed faster and more smoothly
  • Peace of mind with a professionally recognised guarantor

Option 2: Pay Rent Upfront

If you prefer not to use a guarantor service, you can pay 6–12 months’ rent in advance directly to the landlord.

Ask our team about the SPL Guarantor Partnership when you apply — we’ll help you choose the best option and set it up in minutes.

Step 6: Reserve Your Property

Once you’ve chosen your accommodation:

  • Pay a holding deposit of one week’s rent (collected on behalf of the landlord/property owner) to secure and reserve the property
  • We’ll pause marketing while we complete reference checks and prepare your tenancy documents
  • You’ll then receive your draft tenancy agreement to review

Important: The holding deposit will be deducted from your first month’s rent or security deposit once you sign the agreement. If you proceed with the tenancy, you won’t lose this money.

Legal Note: Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, holding deposits are capped at one week’s rent maximum.

Step 7: Sign the Tenancy Agreement

Once your application is approved:

  • You’ll sign your tenancy agreement electronically
  • Pay your first month’s rent (minus the holding deposit already paid)
  • Pay your security deposit (typically five weeks’ rent)
  • Your deposit will be safely held in a Government-approved Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme, and you’ll receive written confirmation

Step 8: Move In

When your tenancy starts, you’ll receive:

  • Your keys
  • An inventory report listing the property’s condition and items
  • A digital copy of the How to Rent guide
  • Contact details for maintenance and support

Important: Take photos and videos on your move-in day — it helps protect your deposit when you move out.

Step 9: Set Up Utilities and Essentials

After moving in, make sure to:

  • Register your gas, electricity, and water suppliers
  • Arrange Wi-Fi or broadband
  • Notify the local council (students are usually exempt from Council Tax)
  • Register with a local GP (doctor)
  • Obtain a TV licence if you watch live television or BBC iPlayer

Step 10: During Your Tenancy

Throughout your stay:

  • Report any maintenance issues promptly to SPL Agency UK
  • Pay your rent on time each month (or as agreed)
  • Keep the property in good condition
  • If you’re using the SPL Guarantor Service, ensure your monthly payments are up to date

Step 11: Moving Out

When your tenancy ends:

  • Give proper notice as stated in your tenancy agreement (usually 1–2 months)
  • Clean the property thoroughly and repair any damage beyond normal wear and tear
  • Attend a check-out inspection or provide access for one
  • Return all keys to SPL Agency UK
  • Provide your forwarding address for deposit return

Your deposit will be returned within 10 days of the end of your tenancy, minus any agreed deductions for damage or unpaid rent.

Ongoing Support from SPL Agency UK

Our team is here to support you during your stay and beyond.

Whether you need help with maintenance, tenancy renewals, or finding your next property, SPL Agency UK is only a message away.

Contact SPL Agency UK

Email: antjon@splagencyuk.com

Website: https://splagencyuk.com/

WhatsApp / Phone: 07469 289 953

Summary Checklist

✓ Read the official How to Rent guide

✓ Prepare your documents (passport, visa, university letter, proof of funds)

✓ Obtain your Right to Rent Share Code

✓ Choose your guarantor option: UK Guarantor, SPL’s monthly service, OR pay rent upfront

✓ View and reserve your property with a holding deposit of one week’s rent

✓ Complete reference checks

✓ Sign your tenancy agreement

✓ Pay the first month’s rent and security deposit

✓ Move in and set up utilities

✓ Register with the council and GP

✓ Enjoy your stay with SPL’s ongoing support!

Good luck with your studies, and welcome to the UK!

SPL Agency UK — Making student accommodation simple, secure, and stress-free.