DIY InventoryRenting in Bristol: check-in and getting your deposit back
What to check when you move in, how to protect your deposit, and where renters in Bristol can get help.
Homes to rent in Bristol
Bristol is a large city with a big private rented sector, driven by two universities and strong demand from young workers. Much of the inner city is Victorian terraces and Georgian houses converted into flats, while the centre and Harbourside have many modern apartment blocks. Shared student houses are concentrated in areas such as Redland, Cotham and Bishopston. The outer south and north of the city have large post-war council-built estates.
Average rent: £1,880 a month (ONS, July 2026), up 6.5% on a year earlier. Source
On moving-in day
- Before unpacking, photograph every room: a wide shot, then each item, with the date and time on every photo.
- Photograph the meters (gas, electricity, water) and write down the readings.
- Count the keys and fobs, and test the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
- Note anything worn, marked or not working, and send it to the landlord or agent within a few days.
Things to look at in Bristol homes
- Georgian conversions in Clifton and Hotwells: photograph sash windows, high ceilings and cornices for cracks, and any damp on the steep hillside walls.
- Student and shared houses in Redland, Cotham and Bishopston: photograph each bedroom lock, fire doors, smoke alarms and the shared kitchen.
- Victorian terraces in Bedminster, Southville and Easton: photograph rear yards, outside drains and any damp in the back addition kitchen.
- Apartment blocks at Harbourside and Temple Quarter: photograph the entry system and parking space, and record fobs, post box and bike store keys.
- Basement and lower-ground flats: photograph walls near floor level and window wells for damp and mould.
- Flats above shops on main roads such as Gloucester Road: photograph the separate street door, stairs and meter cupboards.
Your deposit
Your landlord must protect your deposit in the DPS, TDS or mydeposits within 30 days and tell you which. At the end, deductions can only be for damage beyond fair wear and tear, cleaning back to the check-in standard, or rent owed. A dated check-in record is your best protection.
Help from the council
Tenants can report disrepair, damp or unsafe conditions to Bristol City Council's private housing team, which can inspect and take action against landlords. Bristol City Council: private renting.
Renting in Bristol: questions
What should I check when I move into a rented home in Bristol?
Photograph every room and item before you unpack, with the date on each photo: walls, floors, windows, appliances, meters and keys. Note anything worn or damaged and get the landlord or agent to agree it in writing.
How do I get my deposit back?
Leave the home as you found it, allowing for fair wear and tear, and compare it with the check-in record. If you disagree with deductions, the deposit scheme’s free dispute service decides on the evidence.
Where can renters in Bristol get help?
Tenants can report disrepair, damp or unsafe conditions to Bristol City Council's private housing team, which can inspect and take action against landlords.
Can a tenant do the check-in inventory?
Yes. With DIY Inventory a tenant can do it on their phone and send the landlord a link to check and sign it, so both sides have the same dated record.