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What to Expect When Renting with a Letting Agent: A First-Timer’s Guide

Wed 07 May 2025

Katie Johnson MARLA, Associate Residential Lettings

What to Expect When Renting with a Letting Agent: A First-Timer’s Guide

Renting your first home is an exciting milestone—but it can also feel a bit overwhelming. If you’ve never dealt with a letting agent before, you might be wondering: What do they actually do? How do I make a good impression? What should I look out for?

At Scriven & Co, we believe the rental process should feel straightforward, transparent, and supportive. Here's what you can expect when renting through a letting agent, step by step.

1. Finding the Right Property

Letting agents act on behalf of landlords, marketing available properties online and in branch. You can browse listings on property portals like Rightmove or Zoopla, or directly on the agent’s website.

Top tip: Sign up for alerts or call the agent early—rental demand is high, and good homes go fast.

2. Viewing and Applying

Once you find a property you like, we will ask you to submit a short 'pre-qualification' form to gather some basic information before arranging a viewing. If you're interested after seeing it, make sure to let us know!

Expect to provide:

  • Photo ID

  • Proof of income/employment

  • Details of any guarantor (if needed)

  • A holding deposit (usually equivalent to one week's rent)

Top tip: Be honest and responsive—delays in paperwork can hold up the process or cost you the property.

3. Referencing and Credit Checks

The letting agent will carry out background checks to confirm you can afford the rent and that you’ve rented responsibly in the past (if applicable). This includes:

  • Credit check

  • Landlord references

  • Employment verification

Don’t worry if you’re new to renting—many agents will accept a guarantor if you don’t have a rental history.

4. Tenancy Agreement and Move-In

If referencing is successful, you’ll be offered the tenancy. You’ll be asked to:

  • Review and sign the tenancy agreement

  • Pay the security deposit (capped by law)

  • Arrange a move-in date and collect keys

The agent will also provide:

  • A copy of your tenancy agreement

  • Gas safety and EPC certificates

  • A full inventory and condition report

Top tip: Read everything carefully—ask the agent to clarify anything you don’t understand before signing.

5. During Your Tenancy

The letting agent may also manage the property on the landlord’s behalf, like we do at Scriven & Co. That means:

  • Reporting repairs or maintenance through them

  • Scheduling regular inspections (you’ll be notified in advance)

  • Having a clear point of contact throughout the tenancy

Keep communication open—agents are there to help keep your home safe, compliant, and well-maintained.

6. Renewing or Moving Out

Toward the end of your tenancy, the agent will be in touch about renewing or giving notice. If you choose to move out, they’ll arrange a check-out inspection and handle the return of your deposit.

Deposit tip: Leave the property in the same condition as when you moved in (minus fair wear and tear) to ensure a smooth return of your deposit.

Final Thoughts

Renting for the first time doesn’t need to be stressful. A good letting agent is there to guide you, answer your questions, and make sure everything runs smoothly.

If you're looking for your first home in Quinton, Halesowen, Oldbury or surrounding areas, get in touch with Scriven & Co—we’re here to help you find your place.