Moving into your rental property is always exciting; it’s a brand-new place that you can start to call home. But it also comes with responsibilities that you need to really pay attention to. One of the most common questions for renters is, which bills are you responsible for as a tenant?
Understanding all your financial obligations from Day 1 helps you avoid surprises later (and potential debts), so this guide on Which bills are you responsible for as a tenant walks you through exactly what you’ll need to pay—using real examples—to help you plan your budget wisely and steer clear of common pitfalls.
Council Tax: Your Indispensable Liability
Most of the time, council tax would be one of the things on the tenant’s end. You’re going to pay the local council depending on how your property was valued.
For instance, someone renting a flat in Camden is likely to pay quite a different amount than the person renting a flat in Hackney.
Great news: if you are a full-time student, you would normally be exempt, and there might also be a chance for you to qualify for a 25% reduction if you live alone. It’s best to check directly with your local council, though.
Most tenants are responsible for having gas and electricity paid, except as stated otherwise in the tenancy agreement. Then, if you have these bills in your name, you are free to switch gas and electricity suppliers, thus saving yourself some money!
Sites like Uswitch make comparison of rates easier. For example, you might have gone into a flat with an old energy plan-switch it; it could save you hundreds.
Water Bills: Know What It Entails
When it comes to Which bills are you responsible for as a tenant, water charges can be a grey area, as they are sometimes included in the rent and other times billed separately—and if you are responsible, you should note that water suppliers are local and cannot be switched.
But you can request a water metre if you want to pay for what you really use, although you have to ask your landlord first in case your stay is short-term.
Find your water supplier if you’re unsure who to contact.
Phone and Broadband: Select the Right Package
You have to hook up the phone line and provide your broadband, which you are responsible for setting up and paying for. It is crucial to go for a reliable provider with the heavy dependence on streaming, online work, and social media in today’s world.
Find broadband, tv and phone package deals on uswitch
Example: If you are sharing with flatmates, going for an unlimited data plan could save the trouble of incurring overage charges. Bundling broadband with TV packages tends to be cheaper too—comparison sites like Uswitch can guide you.
TV Licence: Don’t Risk a Fine
If you want to watch live television and BBC iPlayer, you have to get a TV licence. It’s a cost without option at £159 per annum and non-compliance can impose an exorbitantly high fine of £1,000!
TV States may be done online with relative ease for those who hold or would like to renew a licence, as a further facility is provided to spread payments.
Apply or renew your TV licence on tvlicensing.co.uk.
Contents Insurance: Protect Yourself
While your landlord takes care of the building insurance, it is up to you to ensure the protection of your belongings.
Say a burst pipe flooded your flat and all your laptops, clothes, and furniture were destroyed; contents insurance covers that.
Surprisingly low, but you should shop around. Use providers like Compare the Market for a suitable policy that meets your budget and needs.
Service Charges-Check the Fine Print
Service Charge may be an additional expense some rental contracts require from their tenants — the cost of maintaining communal areas, such as gardens or stairwells.
Always read your tenancy agreement carefully. Unexpected charges can easily throw off your monthly budget if you are not prepared.
Top Tips for Overseas Tenants to Consider for Their Bills:
- Set up Direct Debits — avoided missed payments and perhaps even some discounts.
- Pay Annually Where Possible — it usually works out much cheaper than monthly.
- Compare and Switch — rely a few hours to save a fortune.
Conclusion: Which bills are you responsible for as a tenant?
Renting sets you free but makes you responsible. Understanding which bills are you responsible for as a tenant allows you to maintain control of your finances and gives you less reason to have stress during your rental experience.
At London Stays, we want you to be enjoying your new home, not stressing over hidden costs. Check your tenancy agreement, ask questions if you don’t understand, and budget for the other bills we’ve mentioned above.
Need help finding somewhere to rent that suits your lifestyle and budget? Start your search with London Stays now!
