How to prepare for the end of your tenancy

Give the right amount of notice

As of the 1st of May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act has changed the rules around giving notice. The introduction of mandatory periodic tenancies means you must now give at least two months’ notice, although it’s possible you could agree a shorter period. 

You must give your notice in writing (such as by email, letter or text message), even if you’ve already told your landlord in person. What’s more, your tenancy must end on a day when the rent is due or the day before the rent is due. 

If your tenancy began before the 1st of May, your notice period might be one month, but check your formal agreement for the details. 

Here’s more government information on assured periodic tenancies.

Deep clean the property 

As you pull on your rubber gloves, here’s your aim: return the property to the condition you found it in while allowing for fair wear and tear such as worn carpets and scuffed walls. Alternatively, you can choose to pay for a professional to work their magic (landlords can’t legally require you to hire a cleaner). If so, hold onto the receipts in case you later need to prove you organised this work. 

Either way, make sure you remove all personal belongings and rubbish from the property, including bin bags that don’t fit in the wheelie bins and excess garden waste. 

Carry out minor repair jobs

Have your picture hooks left small holes? Are there any broken light bulbs? Set about making such fixes and returning the place to its original state – for example, if you painted the walls a different colour without the landlord’s permission, welcome back that magnolia.

If you can’t remember the exact condition of the property when you moved in, rustle up the original check-in inventory report. It might be that the kitchen table was already scratched, for instance. 

Record your efforts

Once the property is in good shape, take time-stamped photos of every room, item of furniture and appliance before you leave. Yes, this might seem a tiresome job, but should your landlord query something, you’ll have photographic evidence at hand. 

If possible, try to attend the check-out inspection. By walking around the property with your landlord, you can get an understanding of what they might deduct from your deposit. 

Don’t forget the admin

Here are some last-minute tasks to squeeze in:

• Set up a mail-forwarding service with Royal Mail at least a fortnight before you leave
• Take energy and water meter readings and send them to your suppliers
• Pay your remaining bills and tell the local council that you’re moving
• Hand the keys to your landlord on time 

Final thoughts

You’ll feel more confident about getting back your deposit – and a glowing reference – if you nail the tasks above. If there’s anything you’re unsure about, look at your written agreement or ask your landlord for information on your obligations as a tenant.