Moving out
Starting the process
Before you leave your current accommodation, it鈥檚 important to plan ahead to ensure a smooth handover and get your deposit back. Use the checklists and guidance below to make sure everything is covered.
Moving out checklist
Your step-by-step exit plan
Clean everything thoroughly- from kitchens to bathrooms (see to the right)
Take photos as evidence- record the condition of your room and common spaces
Remove all belongings- don鈥檛 leave any personal items or rubbish behind.
Make sure to lock all windows and doors
Take meter readings (water, gas, electricity)- make sure you inform utility companies of your tenancy end date and forwarding address
Return all keys- check how they need to be returned.
Cleaning & Photos
Not sure where to start? Here's a break down of the rooms, and what you might need to do in each.
TOP TIP: start cleaning a few weeks before you want to move out, and divide and conquer!
Kitchen
- Fridge and freezer: empty and defrost
- Clean the stove top and oven
- Ensure all food is eaten or disposed of (don't leave any dry goods)
- Empty all cupboards
- WIPE EVERYTHING: cabinets, surfaces, floors, worktops, microwaves, kettles etc
- Take photos once done- check against reference photos & inventory
The legal side
Notice Period
Your notice period will be 2 months, in line with the . You will be required to give notice in writing ending on or the day before a rent due date. It is common for notice periods to end on the last day of a rental period (e.g. end of the month) so take this into account!
- Statutory rights: a landlord cannot attempt to force you to leave sooner or stay longer that what is legally required or stipulated in your tenancy contract
- Contractual exceptions: if your original tenancy agreement specifically allows you to give a shorter notice period (e.g. a month) then you can rely on the more favourable term
- Shortening notice: whilst you cannot be forced to leave sooner, you and your landlord can legally agree to a shorter notice period if it is mutually agreed and put in writing
All shorthold tenancies signed before or after have been converted to Assured Periodic Tenancies from 1st of May 2026. As such there should be no end date stipulated in your contract.
IMPORTANT: make sure you get everything in writing, and keep copies for your record.
Deposit return & disputes
- Ensure you鈥檝e met all conditions in your contract.
- Check the inventory and original photos you took of the space- ensure the condition matches (or exceeds if you're really keen) what is listed there.
- Ask your landlord or agent for a final inspection.
- Keep all important communication in writing.
- Email them once you have left asking for the deposit to be returned.
- You should receive your deposit within 10 days of moving out (minus any deductions that may have been taken from it as a result of the condition of the property).
-
If you fail to reach an agreement of appropriate deductions from your deposit- you can raise a dispute with your respective deposit scheme using their Alternative Dispute Resolution Scheme (ADR).
Summer storage options
- Look into local storage companies for temporary options.
- Coordinate shared transport with your housemates if possible.
- Donate or dispose of unwanted items responsibly, don鈥檛 leave them behind.
There are several storage and removal companies, below are a collection of places to check out:
If you need somewhere to stay in between lets, the SU has pulled together a non-exhaustive list of