Find a private rented home

The amount of social housing available in Newham is very limited. One alternative is to find your own private rented home.

The internet is a good place to start your search for a private rented home. On websites such as Zoopla and Rightmove you will find properties that have been listed by both landlords and letting agents.

All our libraries offer free computer and internet access. 

If you have your own digital device such as a tablet or smartphone, you can use our free wifi there.

You could also check listings in newspapers and magazines.

For more information, read Shelter's advice on ways to find a private rented home.

Using a letting agent

Letting agents let and manage rooms, flats and houses for private landlords. This means they may collect rent and arrange repairs on behalf of the landlord.

Even if you don't deal with your landlord directly, you have the right to find out who they are. You can ask your letting agent for this information.

Before you use a letting agent, it is important that you check that the agent is a member of a letting agent redress scheme. 

The schemes set a code of practice that agents must comply with.

You must also make sure you are aware of:

• The terms and conditions of your tenancy before you sign
• Any fees and charges you need to pay when you sign your tenancy or renew or extend it in the future.

Shelter's website has detailed information about using a letting agent to find and rent a home and what you need to consider.

Renting in Newham

By law, in Newham, when you find a place to live, to comply with our licensing legislation your agent must show you:

• Gas safety certificates 
• The property licence
• The Energy Performance Certificate (EPC)
• And give you an inventory of contents. 

They must also secure your deposit in a Government deposit protection  scheme and give you details of the scheme.

How to rent : A guide for tenants (PDF)