How to Rent a Property in London – 2025 Guide
Renting in London can feel overwhelming, especially for first-time tenants or those relocating from abroad. This guide from Ernest-Brooks International breaks down everything you need to know in 2025 – from legal checks to avoiding common mistakes.
Why Rent in London Now
London remains one of the most desirable rental markets in the world. Areas like Canary Wharf, Nine Elms, Stratford and the City continue to attract strong demand. With buying still out of reach for many, renters are prioritising quality and transparency in how they rent.
What You Need Before You Start
Before viewing, have the following ready:
- Proof of ID (passport, visa or BRP)
- Proof of income or job offer
- Previous landlord or employer references
- Consent for a credit check
- Right to Rent check completed
EBI helps every applicant understand exactly what’s required before progressing.
Red Flags to Watch During Viewings
Many tenants rush decisions in a competitive market. Don’t. Look out for:
- Visible damp or black mould
- Strong air fresheners masking odours
- Cracked walls or loose fixtures hidden behind furniture
- Incomplete safety features or broken intercoms
- Vague answers about maintenance or deposit protection
Our flat viewing checklist helps you avoid costly mistakes.
Choosing the Right Agent
Working with the wrong agent can lead to confusion, delays or disputes. At EBI, we prioritise clarity and compliance – unlike larger corporate agencies that often outsource key tasks.
- We provide full tenancy details from day one
- Our listings are verified and documented
- We are fully regulated and award-winning for property management
- We give realistic timelines and accurate information – no pressure
Understanding Your Tenancy Agreement
We help you review and understand:
- Fixed-term versus periodic contracts
- Break clauses and early exit options
- Deposit protection schemes and deductions
- Who handles repairs and what is included in rent
- How much notice is required from both sides
EBI walks you through each clause before signing.
Fees, Holding Deposits and Upfront Costs
Under the Tenant Fees Act, you will not be charged for admin, referencing or inventories. However, you will still need to budget for:
- Holding deposit (up to one week’s rent)
- Security deposit (up to five weeks’ rent)
- Utility bills, council tax and contents insurance
We explain all charges clearly on our how to rent page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a holding deposit and how much is it?
A holding deposit is a refundable fee (up to one week’s rent) to reserve the property while referencing is completed. It’s explained in more detail on our how to rent page.
How do Right to Rent checks work in 2025?
All tenants must prove their legal right to rent in the UK. EBI supports this process and outlines the steps in our Right to Rent guide.
What are the most common red flags when viewing a flat?
Watch out for signs of mould, vague answers from the agent, or staged furniture hiding damage. Our full list is covered in our rental red flags blog.
Can I terminate my tenancy early?
It depends on whether your agreement includes a break clause. EBI can help clarify terms before signing.
Why Rent with EBI
- Verified, high-quality listings
- Transparent contracts and upfront fees
- Guidance on Right to Rent and compliance
- Trusted by international professionals and UK tenants
- Awarded Best International Property Consultancy 2024 – BUILD Real Estate & Property Awards
- 2025 Award for Property Management Services
- Backed by hundreds of 5-star reviews on Trustpilot
- Rated 4.9 stars on Google by hundreds of satisfied clients – read our Google reviews here
We help tenants avoid stress, confusion and surprises. Our lettings team is available by phone, email or WhatsApp for full support.
Start Your Search
View all verified rental listings in London – and let EBI help you find the right home, the right way.
