Tenant information
Renting made clear, from viewing to moving day
Looking for a room, flat or house in Doncaster? This guide explains how renting with AP Yorkshire works, what we may ask from you and how to get help once you have moved in.
Step by step
How the renting process works
We keep each stage straightforward and let you know what is needed next.
Enquire and view
Tell us what you are looking for, who will live at the property and anything important we should know. If the home looks suitable, we will arrange a viewing.
Complete your application
If you would like to proceed, complete the application accurately and provide the documents requested. A refundable holding deposit may be needed to reserve the property while checks are completed.
Referencing and checks
Checks can include identity, Right to Rent, affordability, employment or income and a previous landlord reference. We will contact you if anything else is reasonably required.
Review and sign
When the application is approved, read the tenancy information carefully and ask about anything that is unclear. Required rent and deposit payments are confirmed after the agreement is signed.
Check in
You will receive the move-in arrangements, keys and an inventory or schedule of condition. Check the inventory promptly and report any differences using the instructions provided.
Settle into your home
Pay rent as agreed, keep your contact details up to date and report repairs early. Clear communication helps us resolve most tenancy matters faster.
What to have ready
Requirements vary by property and circumstances, but applicants are commonly asked for:
- Photo identification and evidence needed for a Right to Rent check
- Proof of current address
- Employment, income or affordability information
- Previous landlord details where relevant
- Accurate details of everyone who will occupy the property
- Information about pets or other requirements that may affect suitability
Tell us early if a document is difficult to provide. We will explain whether another form of evidence can be considered.
Current rules
Private renting in England from May 2026
Most private assured tenancies now run on a rolling basis as assured periodic tenancies. Your written agreement and the information supplied at move-in explain the terms for your particular home.
- Rent cannot be required before the tenancy agreement has been signed. After signing, most tenants can be asked for no more than one month’s rent in advance.
- A holding deposit can be up to one week’s rent.
- A tenancy deposit can be up to five weeks’ rent where annual rent is below £50,000, or up to six weeks where it is £50,000 or more. It must be protected in an approved scheme.
- You may ask in writing to keep a pet. The landlord must consider the request and should explain any refusal.
- Rent can generally be increased once a year, not during the first 12 months of a new tenancy, using the prescribed notice process.
This is a practical overview, not legal advice. For the latest official information, visit the GOV.UK Renters’ Rights guidance.
Once you have moved in
During your tenancy
Paying rent
Pay using the method and reference shown in your agreement. If you think a payment may be late, contact us as early as possible so the situation can be discussed.
Repairs and emergencies
Report faults promptly and include photographs and clear details where possible. For an urgent issue outside office hours, follow the emergency instructions supplied with your tenancy.
Looking after the property
Take reasonable day-to-day care of your home, keep it properly ventilated and report leaks, damp, mould or damage before the problem becomes worse.
Visits and inspections
Access may be needed for inspections, repairs and safety checks. Planned visits will normally be arranged with notice, and the details will be communicated in advance.
Pets and alterations
Ask in writing before keeping a pet, decorating, installing fixtures or making other changes. Please wait for a written response before going ahead.
Subletting and occupiers
Do not sublet, take in a lodger or allow an unapproved person to move in without clear written permission and any checks that are legally required.
When it is time to leave
Ending your tenancy
Check your agreement and contact us before making moving arrangements. For most assured periodic tenancies, a tenant will normally give two months’ notice in writing, timed to the rent due date or the day before it. An earlier date can be agreed in writing.
Before handing back the keys
- Remove personal belongings and dispose of all rubbish
- Clean the property thoroughly
- Bring rent and other agreed payments up to date
- Return every key as instructed
- Provide final meter readings where requested
- Leave the home in the required condition, allowing for fair wear and tear
If a tenancy deposit was taken, it remains protected while any proposed deductions are considered. Once both sides agree the amount to be returned, repayment should normally be made within ten days.
Useful answers
Common tenant questions
Can I move in early?
No. Move-in can only take place from the agreed start date after the required paperwork and payments are complete.
What if I lose a key?
Tell us promptly. Where your agreement allows a charge, it should reflect the reasonable replacement cost actually incurred.
Can I decorate?
Ask first and wait for written permission, even if the proposed change seems minor.
What should I do about damp or mould?
Report it early with photographs and details. Sensible heating and ventilation help, but persistent damp, mould, leaks or defects should always be assessed.
Ready to find your next home?
Call 01302 811 116 or email office@apyorkshire.co.uk.
Office: 41 Nether Hall Road, Doncaster, DN1 2PG