10 Important Details Tenants Should Provide to Their Letting Agent – Expert Tips from Bryan Property
Renting a new property can be an exciting step, whether you’re moving for work, family, or a fresh start. But before you get the keys, your letting agent needs certain information to ensure everything runs smoothly.
At Bryan Property Lettings and Management Ltd, we work closely with tenants across the UK to make the rental process as transparent and stress-free as possible. Providing accurate details early on helps us match you to the right property, complete your application quickly, and ensure you meet all legal requirements.
Let’s explore the ten most important details every tenant should provide to their letting agent.
1. Proof of Identity
Before a tenancy can begin, your letting agent must verify your identity under UK Right to Rent regulations. Accepted forms of ID typically include:
- A valid passport (UK or overseas)
- A driving licence
- Or an official biometric residence permit
Providing this early avoids delays and ensures your application complies with legal standards.
2. Proof of Address
Your proof of address helps confirm your current living situation. You can provide one or more of the following documents:
- A recent utility bill (within the last three months)
- A council tax statement
- A bank or credit card statement
These documents show that your details are genuine and up to date.
3. Employment and Income Details
To make sure you can comfortably afford the rent, your letting agent will need to verify your income. This usually involves:
- Your latest three payslips
- An employment contract
- Or a letter from your employer or HR department
If you’re self-employed, providing tax returns or accountant references can also help demonstrate financial stability.
4. Previous Landlord References
A good reference from a previous landlord can make all the difference. It gives your new letting agent confidence that you’ve paid rent on time and looked after the property responsibly.
Ask your previous landlord to include:
- The rental period
- Confirmation of on-time payments
- And a short note about the condition of the property after you moved out.
5. Credit History or Guarantor Information
Many agents run a basic credit check to understand your financial history. Don’t worry if your credit score isn’t perfect—being upfront about it helps us find the right solution.
If necessary, you may be asked to provide a guarantor, usually a UK resident with a stable income who agrees to cover rent payments if needed.
6. Rental Preferences and Requirements
Letting agents appreciate when tenants are clear about what they’re looking for. Be ready to share:
- Your preferred move-in date
- Desired property type (flat, house, studio, etc.)
- And tenancy length
This information helps agents like Bryan Property Lettings and Management Ltd find the perfect match faster.
7. Details of All Occupants
It’s essential to disclose who will be living in the property — whether that’s family members, flatmates, or dependents.
This ensures the property is suitable for the number of residents and that all adults are properly referenced and added to the tenancy agreement.
8. Pets, Smoking, and Lifestyle Information
Be honest about lifestyle factors like owning pets or smoking. This doesn’t automatically disqualify you from a property, but transparency helps your agent find a home where these things are permitted.
Many landlords are happy to accommodate pets if they’re informed upfront and reassured about care and cleanliness.
9. Emergency Contact Information
Providing an emergency contact (ideally someone in the UK) allows your letting agent to reach someone if an urgent matter arises—such as repairs or safety concerns—when you’re unavailable.
10. Supporting Documentation for Special Circumstances
If you’re self-employed, a student, or receiving benefits, your letting agent may need extra documentation, such as:
- Student enrolment letters
- Proof of benefits
- Or income statements from your accountant
The more information you can provide early on, the smoother your application will be.
Common Mistakes Tenants Should Avoid
- Submitting outdated or unclear documents
- Withholding information (it usually gets uncovered during referencing anyway)
- Ignoring requests for additional proof
Remember — being transparent and cooperative helps your letting agent secure your dream property faster.
How Bryan Property Lettings and Management Ltd Supports Tenants
At Bryan Property Lettings and Management Ltd, we pride ourselves on making the rental process easy and supportive.
From clear communication and flexible viewing options to honest advice and fair referencing, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Our goal is to help tenants feel confident, informed, and respected throughout their rental journey.
To learn more about renting through us, visit Citizens Advice Renting Guide or contact us directly for personalized support.