Finding a place to rent

It is often easier, quicker and more convenient to secure a private rented property.

Benefits of private rented properties

There are many benefits, you’ll have more choice, for example:

• Where you live
• How much rent you want pay
• Properties are usually available immediately
• Available furnished, unfurnished and even part furnished
• What facilities you have (self-contained or shared)
• It is easy to end a tenancy if you decide to move
• You could avoid temporary accommodation which may have with limited or shared facilities
• Avoid living in temporary accommodation for an unknown period of time
• Avoid furniture storage costs (that you might have if you were housed on temporary basis)

Finding a home

The quickest way to find a property is to ask friends and family or search online. You can also check local estate agents and newsagents. Renting from a landlord or letting agent will depend on your budget and what services you might want. You should think about whether you want your own place or want to share a flat or house, size, location, budget and any benefits you claim.

Living in London is expensive. To find out where you could afford to live use the London rents map or House price calculator. 

Searching online

The most convenient and quickest way to find housing is online. You could try some of these or go to property search websites:

• www.dsslondon.com
• www.dss-accepted.co.uk
• www.spareroom.com
• www.gumtree.co.uk
• www.findaproperty.co.uk
• www.rightmove.co.uk
• www.zoopla.co.uk
• www.dssmove.co.uk
• www.openrent.co.uk

Sharing a house/flat with others:

• www.spareroom.co.uk
• www.roombuddies.com
• www.easyroommate.co.uk

Advice about private renting

The following organisations can offer advice:

• Shelter: private renting and free housing advice: 0808 800 4444
• Citizens Advice renting from a private landlord
• Homeless Link for advice and support
• Contact Citizens Advice to find out about benefits
• For more about renting privately see how to rent on GOV.UK.

Deposit protection

Your landlord must put your deposit in a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme, if you rent your home on an assured shorthold tenancy visit GOV.UK for more information.