Renting in South Norfolk: check-in and getting your deposit back

Homes to rent in South Norfolk

South Norfolk is a rural district of market towns and villages stretching south from the edge of Norwich to the Waveney valley. Older homes are flint, brick and timber-framed cottages and Georgian town houses, while large new estates have been built around Wymondham, Hethersett, Cringleford, Costessey and Poringland. Most households own their home, and private renting is below average; demand near Norwich comes from the hospital, the University of East Anglia and Norwich Research Park. Much of the countryside is off the gas grid.

Average rent: £981 a month (ONS, August 2026), up 3.1% 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 South Norfolk homes

• Flint and timber-framed cottages: photograph walls inside for damp, beams and uneven floors, and the condition of any wood burner or open fire.
• Rural homes off the gas grid: record the oil tank and gauge level or LPG tank, and any septic tank or treatment plant cover with its last service date.
• New-build estates around Wymondham, Hethersett and Cringleford: photograph snagging items, sealant, paintwork and the garden, and note any estate management charge areas.
• Lets near the hospital and UEA in Cringleford and Costessey: photograph furniture and appliances in detail, as many are furnished and let to staff or students.
• Homes in the Waveney valley and near the Broads: check ground floors, outbuildings and gardens for signs of past flooding.

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 can contact South Norfolk Council's Housing Standards team (shared with Broadland), which can inspect homes and take action against landlords. South Norfolk Council: private renting.

Do your check-in free Moving-in checklist