Reality: There is no legal requirement for landlords to do this. If you want a professional clean to happen, you need to agree it before you sign the contract - and make sure it is written into the contract document itself. A verbal promise is not enough.

Reality: There is no right to cancel a tenancy and leave immediately. Once you have signed, you are bound by the contract. This is exactly why it's so important to view the property in person, ideally more than once, before you accept a tenancy. Don't rely on photos alone.

Reality: Letting agents are representatives of the landlord, who pays their fees. Their primary obligation is to the landlord - not to you. They market properties to tenants, but they are not your advocate. Always read everything carefully and seek independent advice if you're unsure.

Reality: It is entirely your responsibility to remember when your rent is due and to pay on time. Your landlord is not obligated to chase you. We strongly recommend setting up a standing order so payments happen automatically, or at minimum, putting regular reminders in your calendar.

Reality: Not necessarily. Landlords are responsible for dealing with pests that occur at the start of the tenancy. If you discover an infestation when you move in, please report it straightaway. Infestations that occur later in the tenancy are usually the tenants’ responsibility. They can also be a shared responsibility between tenants and landlord.

Reality: Only the people named on the tenancy agreement are legally allowed to live in the property. Guests are permitted for short stays only, and they cannot pay rent. If you want a friend to move in, you need your landlord's written permission.

UAL does not recommend subletting - it makes you a landlord yourself, including responsibility for conducting "Right to Rent" immigration checks, which carry serious legal consequences if not done correctly.

Reality: This is subletting, it is not allowed, and risky.

Reality: Only property owners have this high level of control. As a renter, you do need to give access as required. Bear in mind that landlords do have repairing obligations.

Tenants are required to give access provided appropriate notice is given. Lodgers living with resident landlords do not have the right to keep their landlord out at all. Tenants in a joint tenancy take the whole of the property together, and all of it is everyone’s home.

Reality: You may have a compensation claim if repairs do not get done and there is no good reason for it. But you will still be liable to pay rent.