Renting in London for the first time can feel like a contact sport. Demand outstrips supply in most neighbourhoods, good flats get snapped up within hours, and the costs that pile on top of the headline rent surprise almost everyone. A little preparation goes a long way.

Have your paperwork ready

The single biggest advantage you can give yourself is speed. Landlords and agents move fast, so the renter who can prove they are serious tends to win. Before you even start viewing, gather proof of income, references from a previous landlord or employer, and identification. If you can show you are ready to commit on the spot, you stand out.

Be clear on the numbers too. On top of monthly rent you will usually pay a deposit, which by law is capped at five weeks’ rent for most tenancies and must be protected in a government-approved scheme. Holding deposits are also limited, so do not let anyone pressure you into paying large sums upfront.

Questions worth asking

• What is the council tax band, and is it included or extra?
• How is the property heated, and roughly what do the bills come to?
• Who manages repairs, the landlord directly or the agency?
• What is the transport like at the times you actually travel?

It is tempting to chase the lowest rent, but a cheap flat with a brutal commute or damp walls rarely stays a bargain. Visit in person where you can, check phone signal, and trust your instincts about the building and the neighbours.

Finally, read the tenancy agreement properly before signing. Once you understand the deposit rules and your right to a written agreement, the process feels far less intimidating, and you can focus on actually finding somewhere that feels like home.