Unclear about renting? We’re here to fill your knowledge gaps

Did you know that 1 in 5 UK households is in the private rental sector? And that 25 to 34 year olds make up the largest group of tenants? Despite around 11 million UK citizens having renter status, a new survey reveals there are alarming gaps in knowledge.  

Housing Hand’s report Understanding Renters in 2025 was published after 1,700 working professionals and students renting privately across the UK took part in its study. The results found the UK’s youngest renters are entering into contracts without knowing the full consequences or key details. 

Deficiency in deposit awareness 

The biggest lack of knowledge among Gen Z concerned deposits, despite this being a highly controlled aspect of private renting. Among participants, 66% were unsure about how the deposit return process worked and 50% were not aware of deposit protection schemes.

We make it clear to prospective tenants what can be expected when it comes to deposits. Our tenants know deposits are capped at a maximum of 5 weeks' rent when the annual rent is less than £50,000, and capped at a maximum of 6 weeks' rent when the annual rent is £50,000 or more.

It’s also made clear that holding deposits are limited to 1 weeks’ worth of rent to secure a property. We also share details of who we use to protect the deposit (it has to be a Government-approved scheme). This process gives renters access to a redress service, should there be a deposit dispute.

Educating to avoid disputes

Although less common than the media would like people to believe, deposit disputes can happen. Thankfully, instances at our agency are kept low as we educate our tenants on boosting their chances of getting their deposit back at the end of a tenancy. 

A full return usually hinges on taking responsibility. That includes looking after the property, making repairs, keeping areas clean and not inflicting malicious damage, as well as not falling into rental arrears.

We use tenancy agreements to make it clear what is expected of the tenant and what is expected of the landlord. Our check in, inventory, mid-term inspection and check out procedures help establish a property’s condition at various stages.  This evidence is invaluable should there be a deposit refund query at the end.

Giving credit where it’s due

The Understanding Renters in 2025 report also revealed how 45% of Gen Z renters do not comprehend how their credit score affects their rental options. Credit checks are part and parcel of the referencing process. They show whether you’ve had difficulty paying back borrowed money. 

Credit checks will also show if a tenant is on the electoral roll, and whether they have any County Court Judgments (CCJs), insolvencies and bankruptcies against their name. This information can be used in tandem with bank statements, wage slips, references and a credit score to help a landlord decide whether a tenant is a good fit. Generally, the lower your credit score, the less likely a landlord will feel confident in you paying the rent.

Back to basic with guarantor back ups

Affordability brings us neatly on to guarantors – another grey area for Gen Z renters. Of those questioned, 35% of under 30s did not know what a rent guarantor was when first asked to provide one.

Landlords are increasingly requesting guarantors when renting out their properties, especially as the Renters’ Rights Act banned rent in advance payments of more than one months’ rent. A guarantor is someone who is legally bound to step in and pay the rent when a tenant can’t. Given that 59% of Gen Z renters would not know what to do if they couldn’t pay their rent, having a guarantor is increasingly important.

A guarantor will themselves have to undergo the same credit checks as the tenant, reassuring the landlord that they have the money to step in and pay. Usually, guarantors must be employed or have easy access to substantial funds. It also helps if the guarantor is a homeowner. 

Need advice & guidance? Just ask

We understand the rental process can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re on hand to help you navigate every step, from registering your details with us to getting your deposit back at the end. Contact us to start your rental journey.