Renting in Folkestone and Hythe: check-in and getting your deposit back

Homes to rent in Folkestone and Hythe

Folkestone and Hythe combines the large coastal town of Folkestone, the smaller resort of Hythe, the low-lying Romney Marsh and the villages of the North Downs. Folkestone has many large Victorian and Edwardian houses divided into flats, alongside regeneration at the harbour and seafront, while Hawkinge has grown with modern estates. On Romney Marsh, bungalows and seaside chalets in Dymchurch and Littlestone are common, and a large new settlement is planned at Otterpool Park.

Average rent: £1,178 a month (ONS, August 2026), up 10.6% on a year earlier. Source

On moving-in day

1. Before unpacking, photograph every room: a wide shot, then each item, with the date and time on every photo.
2. Photograph the meters (gas, electricity, water) and write down the readings.
3. Count the keys and fobs, and test the smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.
4. Note anything worn, marked or not working, and send it to the landlord or agent within a few days.

Things to look at in Folkestone and Hythe homes

• Seafront homes in Folkestone, Sandgate and Dymchurch: check window frames, door ironmongery and external metalwork for salt corrosion, and look for damp on exposed walls.
• Victorian villas split into flats on and near the Leas: photograph communal hallways, fire doors, meter cupboards and the condition of sash windows.
• Hillside homes in Sandgate and Folkestone: photograph steps, retaining walls and any cracking, as parts of the coast are prone to ground movement.
• Romney Marsh bungalows and chalets: note any signs of damp or past flooding, and record oil tanks, septic tanks or LPG where there is no mains gas or sewer.
• Modern estate houses in Hawkinge: photograph gardens, fences, drives and garages, and note any snagging in newer homes.
• Flint and brick cottages in the Elham Valley: check for damp in solid walls, low ceilings and beams, and record wood burners and chimney sweep certificates.

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 with disrepair, damp or safety problems in a private let can contact Folkestone and Hythe District Council's private sector housing team, after first reporting the problem to their landlord. Folkestone and Hythe District Council: private renting.

Do your check-in free Moving-in checklist