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

Homes to rent in South Tyneside

South Tyneside covers South Shields, Jarrow, Hebburn and the Boldons on the south bank of the Tyne. Much of the housing is Victorian terraces and Tyneside flats (pairs of upper and lower flats in what looks like a terraced house), with big inter-war and post-war council estates. Social renting is very high, at almost three in ten households, and private renting is the lowest in the North East, concentrated in the older streets of South Shields. Prices are among the lowest in England.

Average rent: £737 a month (ONS, July 2026), up 6.9% 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 Tyneside homes

• Tyneside flats: note which yard, bins and meters belong to the upper or lower flat, and photograph the shared or separate front doors and stairs.
• Seafront homes in South Shields and Whitburn: check window frames, outside paint and metal fittings for salt and wind damage, and photograph any damp on exposed walls.
• Victorian terraces near Beach Road and Westoe: record the back yard, rear lane gate, gutters, chimneys and any damp in rear rooms.
• Former council houses in Jarrow, Hebburn and Harton: photograph the boiler, fencing, sheds and gardens, and note any non-standard construction.
• Older terraces near the river: check for condensation and mould in bathrooms and bedrooms, and photograph extractor fans and window vents.

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 Tyneside Council's private sector housing team, which can inspect homes and take action against landlords. South Tyneside Council: private renting.

Do your check-in free Moving-in checklist