Move-out
Move-out is the process of a tenant leaving your property and ending the tenancy. For a landlord, it’s where most admin, risk and evidence converge. You need to confirm the end of tenancy date properly, secure the home, assess property condition, handle the tenancy deposit, and avoid avoidable housing disputes.
Start with the end date. Under the Renters’ Rights Act in England, most tenancies are open-ended periodic tenancy arrangements, so move-out usually begins with the tenant giving written notice or, less commonly, you pursuing possession using Section 8 notice and specific grounds for possession. Because Section 21 notice is abolished, you cannot rely on “no-fault” eviction as a routine way to end the tenancy. Confirm the agreed last day in writing and remind the tenant about utilities, council tax, and cleaning expectations.
Next, plan the check-out report. Arrange a mutually convenient time, give written notice, and keep the tone professional. Use your inventory and check-in report to compare condition fairly, allowing for fair wear and tear. Take dated photos, record meter readings, and collect all keys, fobs and parking permits. If there are issues, note them clearly and get contractor quotes quickly, this is what underpins fair deposit deductions.
Deposit handling is a high-friction point, so be methodical. If the deposit is held under deposit protection, you must follow the scheme’s process for repayment and any dispute resolution. Provide an itemised proposal with evidence (photos, invoices) and return any undisputed amount promptly. Government guidance explains that disputes can be referred to the scheme’s resolution service if you cannot agree.
Finally, treat move-out as a handover into the next tenancy. Close off outstanding repairs, update property listings honestly, and schedule any compliance checks. For example gas safety certificate, EICR, EPC, before the next move-in. Good documentation at move-out reduces disputes now and saves time later.
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