If you have to rent digs while you are at university, or when you start work before you can afford your own home, there are a number of things you need to know.

Before paying a deposit, it’s important to check the contract carefully to make sure you’re happy with the terms, such as how much notice you’re expected to give if you want to leave. Ask someone to read this if you’re not sure what anything means.

You’ll also need an inventory. This details every item in the flat/ house when you enter it and the condition of it, so this can be checked when you leave for any damage or missing items. If your landlord hasn’t provided an inventory, draw one up yourself and send it to him.

A deposit will need to be paid. Typically, this is a month’s rent, and is kept by the landlord until the end of the tenancy. The cost of any damage to the property or furnishing will be deducted when you leave.

Also, consider who you live with carefully. It may be worth discussing potential issues such as cleanliness and noise before signing on the dotted line to avoid any disputes.