Guide
Moving in? Do these five things first
1. Take move-in photos
Every room, every wall, the inside of cupboards, the bathroom, the kitchen appliances, the meters. Date them. Email them to yourself so the timestamp is provable.
2. Write a quick inventory
List anything that came with the flat — curtains, blinds, microwave, cutlery, beds. Note the condition. Send the list to your landlord and ask them to confirm in writing.
3. Read the agreement
Especially the parts about deposits, repairs, and notice. If anything is unclear, ask before you sign. A small question now beats a big argument later.
4. Confirm your deposit is protected
You should receive a Deposit Protection Certificate with a number. If you haven't, ask. You can check any certificate at shielddeposit.com/verify.
5. Save the certificate number
Save it in your phone notes, email it to yourself, write it down. It's the easiest proof your money is safe.
Protect your deposit, the easy way
It takes about three minutes. Or check an existing certificate before you sign anything.