Watching your child move into their first rented home is a big (and perhaps a little scary!) milestone.
They might be heading to university, starting a new job, or moving to a new city, and renting for the first time brings a mixture of excitement, independence, and, understandably, a few concerns.
For many parents, the rental process feels unfamiliar too. You might find yourself helping with paperwork, reviewing contracts, discussing budgets, or being asked to stand as a guarantor.
The good news is that you don't need to be a property expert. Understanding a few key areas can help you support your young person and avoid common pitfalls along the way.
Here's what every parent/guardian needs to know before signing any tenancy agreement.
Understand what they're actually signing
A tenancy agreement is a legal contract
A lot of first-time renters treat tenancy agreements as paperwork to skim through and sign quickly.
But do be aware that this document sets out the legal responsibilities of both the tenant and the landlord, including things like joint and several liability. Once it’s signed, it becomes a legally binding agreement.
Encourage your young person to take time to read the contract properly and ask questions if anything is unclear.
Check the key details
Before signing, make sure they understand:
- How much rent is due and when it must be paid
- How long the tenancy lasts
- Notice requirements
- Rules around guests, pets, or decorating
- Who is responsible for bills and utilities
These points might seem straightforward, but misunderstandings can happen, and they often lead to disputes later on.
Understand the type of accommodation
It's also important to understand what type of accommodation your child is renting.
University halls, purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA), and privately rented houses or flats can all operate slightly differently.
Recent changes under the Renters' Rights Act mean that not all student accommodation is treated in the same way, so understanding the tenancy type from the outset is important.
Know how deposits work
Deposits should be protected by law
In England, Wales, and Scotland, tenancy deposits must be placed into a government-approved tenancy deposit protection scheme. It is the landlord’s responsibility that all deposits go into this scheme.
This protects both tenants and landlords and provides a formal process for resolving disputes if they arise.
Your young person should receive information confirming where their deposit is protected shortly after paying it.
Keep records from day one
One of the best things a tenant can do is create a record of the property's condition when they move in.
Take photographs, videos, inventories, and written notes so they’re covered in the event that there is any disagreement about deductions when the tenancy ends.
It's much easier to prove the condition of a property at the start than to argue about it months later.
Understand what deductions can be made
Landlords can’t simply keep a deposit because they choose to. But deductions can be made for legitimate reasons such as:
- Damage beyond normal wear and tear
- Missing items
- Unpaid rent
- Excessive cleaning requirements
Clear records help ensure any deductions are fair and evidence-based.
Understand your role as a parent
Your young person might be asked to help with affordability checks
Landlords need a layer of reassurance that first-time renters can comfortably afford the property.
This may involve providing information about income, funding, student finance, or other financial support arrangements.
Being prepared with documentation can help the application process move more smoothly.
You may be asked to act as a guarantor
One of the most common requests parents receive is to become a rent guarantor.
Many parents agree immediately because they want to help, but it's important to understand exactly what this means.
A guarantor isn't simply a reference or emergency contact. It is a legal commitment to cover financial obligations if the tenant cannot.
Understand the risks before signing
It’s important to be clear on the risks before deciding to become a guarantor. Depending on the tenancy agreement, guarantors can become responsible for:
- Unpaid rent
- Property damage
- Legal costs
- Other tenancy-related debts
In shared student housing, some agreements may also include joint and several liability, which can mean being held responsible for more than your child's share. If you haven’t explore Only My Share yet, now is a good time to get up to speed.
Before signing any guarantor agreement, take time to understand exactly what you're agreeing to.
Ask the right questions before they move in
Who manages the property?
Understanding who is responsible for repairs and maintenance is vital.
For example, is the property managed directly by a landlord, a letting agent, or a larger accommodation provider?
Knowing who to contact if something goes wrong can save a lot of stress later.
What happens if repairs are needed?
Students and first-time renters often don't know what constitutes a repair issue or how to report one.
Encourage your young person to report problems promptly and keep written records of any communication.
This creates a clear trail if issues are not resolved quickly.
What support is available?
Many universities, student unions, and accommodation providers offer support services for tenants.
These can be incredibly valuable if questions arise around housing, contracts, repairs, or disputes.
It's also worth checking what additional support comes with your accommodation or guarantor service.
For example, every tenant supported by Housing Hand has access to a 24/7 HealthHero wellbeing service, which includes not only virtual GP and mental wellbeing support, but also access to legal advice. This can be particularly helpful if you need guidance on housing-related matters or simply want expert advice before a small issue becomes a bigger problem.
Knowing where to turn for help can make a big difference.
Consider whether a professional guarantor may be a better option
Not every parent wants the legal responsibility
For some families, acting as a guarantor is absolutely the right choice.
For others, the financial liability can feel uncomfortable, particularly where shared accommodation is involved.
That's perfectly understandable, and you should not feel pressured to do something that isn’t quite right for you and your family.
Professional guarantor services provide an alternative
Instead of a parent taking on the legal obligation directly, a professional guarantor service can stand as guarantor for the tenant.
This can help young people secure accommodation and reduce any financial exposure for family members.
Additional support for tenants
Housing Hand also provides tenants with access to a 24/7 virtual GP and wellbeing support service, which allows students and tenants to access practical support throughout their tenancy.
For many parents, knowing that additional support is available gives an added reassurance that their child is looked after, even while living away from home.
Renting for the first time is a major step towards independence, so it's natural for both parents and young people to have questions. The key is not to rush, and ensure everyone understands what they are signing up to.
Take the time to truly understand the tenancy agreement, checking how the deposit is protected, asking the right questions, and understanding any guarantor commitments can help prevent problems before they happen.
Most first tenancies are positive experiences. A little preparation at the beginning can go a long way towards making sure your young person's move into rented accommodation is smooth, secure, and stress-free.
Chat to Percy
