Renting Your First Property as a Couple: A Complete Guide
Moving in together for the first time is one of life’s biggest milestones. Renting your first property as a couple in the UK is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming with so many factors to consider — from finances and tenancy agreements to lifestyle adjustments and long-term planning.
Done right, this step can set the foundation for a happy home life together. Done hastily, it can lead to stress, conflict, and even financial strain.
This guide walks you through everything you need to know, helping you make smart, informed choices as you take this important step.
1. Start With Open Conversations About Finances
Before you start scrolling through Rightmove or Zoopla, sit down together and have an honest chat about money. How much do you each earn? How much are you both comfortable spending on rent? Do you have debts, savings, or future financial goals that will affect your budget?
💡 General rule: Your rent should not exceed 30–35% of your combined monthly income. But remember, affordability isn’t just about the rent — it’s about the whole package of living costs.
Things to consider:
- Credit scores: Landlords and letting agents will often run credit checks. Poor credit doesn’t necessarily mean rejection, but you may need a guarantor.
- Joint vs separate finances: Will you have a joint account for rent and bills, or keep things separate and split costs?
- Emergency fund: It’s wise to set aside some savings in case of unexpected costs like appliance breakdowns or a rent increase at renewal time.
2. Choosing the Right Location
Location can make or break your renting experience. A cheaper flat further from work may seem tempting, but long commutes can quickly become tiring and expensive. Likewise, living in a trendy neighbourhood may be fun, but is it worth stretching your budget for?
Couple’s checklist:
- Commute times for both partners
- Safety of the area (check local crime stats online)
- Amenities nearby: supermarkets, gyms, healthcare, green spaces
- Public transport links for work and socialising
- Lifestyle fit: quiet suburban life vs vibrant city centre living
💡 Tip: Visit the area at different times of day (weekday rush hour, weekend evenings) to get a real feel for it before committing.
3. Understanding the True Cost of Renting
Rent is only one piece of the puzzle. Many couples underestimate the hidden costs of renting. Here’s what you need to budget for:
- Council Tax: Rates vary depending on your property’s band and local authority.
- Utility Bills: Gas, electricity, water – these can fluctuate with usage.
- Broadband & TV Licence: Essential for most couples.
- Contents Insurance: Protects your belongings against theft, fire, or damage.
- Deposits: Usually five weeks’ rent plus a holding deposit.
- Furnishing Costs: Not all rentals come fully furnished – factor in the cost of furniture and appliances if needed.
💡 Tip: Use a joint budgeting app like Splitwise or Emma to track these costs and avoid awkward money disputes later.
4. Reading and Understanding the Tenancy Agreement
A tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract, and once you sign it, you’re committed. Don’t just skim it — read every clause.
Key things to check:
- Tenancy length (most start at 6–12 months)
- Break clause (useful if things change and you need to leave early)
- Deposit protection (legally required in a government-backed scheme)
- Responsibilities (e.g. who maintains the garden, rules on decorating)
- Restrictions (pets, smoking, subletting)
💡 Tip: Always ensure both names are on the tenancy agreement. This gives you equal rights and responsibilities, rather than one person being “just a guest.”
5. Knowing Your Rights as Tenants
In the UK, tenants are protected by law — but not everyone is aware of their rights. Knowing them can save you a lot of trouble later.
- Landlords must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme.
- You are entitled to a safe, habitable property (with gas/electrical safety certificates and working smoke alarms).
- Landlords must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property (except in emergencies).
- Your landlord cannot evict you without following proper legal procedures. If problems arise, you can turn to Shelter, Citizens Advice, or your local council for support.
6. Splitting Responsibilities at Home
Living together can highlight differences in habits and expectations. Agree early on how you’ll handle:
- Cleaning schedules
- Cooking and meal planning
- Paying bills (direct debit, joint account, or split manually?)
- Household shopping
💡 Tip: Don’t assume everything will fall into place naturally — having open conversations can prevent resentment from building up.
7. Planning for the Long Term
Think beyond just the next 6 or 12 months. Ask yourselves:
- Is there enough space if one or both of you work from home?
- What if one of you changes jobs? Is the location still convenient?
- Would you want to stay in the area longer term, or is this a short-term stepping stone?
If you see yourselves renting for a few years, choosing a property with a longer-term tenancy option could provide stability and save you from frequent moving costs.
8. Preparing for Viewings Together
When you attend viewings, make sure you both go. You may spot different things — one person might notice the storage space, while the other checks the water pressure or local parking.
What to check at viewings:
- Condition of appliances
- Signs of damp or mould
- Noise levels (especially near busy roads)
- Storage space for clothes, cleaning items, and personal belongings
9. Moving In Smoothly
The move itself can be stressful, so plan ahead:
- Book movers or hire a van early.
- Set up utilities and broadband before moving day.
- Take meter readings as soon as you move in.
- Create a joint inventory of everything in the property (with photos).
Final Thoughts
Renting your first property as a couple in the UK is a huge step towards building a life together. It’s not just about signing a tenancy — it’s about balancing finances, sharing responsibilities, and finding a space that feels like home for both of you.
By being realistic about your budget, understanding your rights, and having open conversations, you’ll set yourselves up for a smooth and positive experience. Remember: it’s not just about renting a property — it’s about starting the next chapter of your lives together.
Looking for an Award-winning team to help you find the perfect property? Give us a call today on 0121 681 6327!