Moving in guide
Moving can be a daunting process at the best of times. We've developed a step-by-step guide to help you through it. We cover all the key stages, from signing up to settling in.
Signing your tenancy agreement
You'll be invited to attend an appointment to sign your tenancy agreement. It's important to read and understand your agreement before the meeting. You should also read and understand our standard terms and conditions [pdf]. If you don't understand anything, please contact us.
You can also view our ‘Welcome to Clarion Housing’ booklet‘ [pdf] which outlines your tenancy responsibilities and our ‘Helping you to access Clarion services and support’ booklet [pdf] which outlines the support we offer as your landlord if you are struggling to manage your finances or tenancy.
Bring your ID
As a landlord, we have to check the identity of all adult residents. This means everyone 18 or older needs to attend your sign-up appointment and bring accepted ID, such as a UK passport or driving licence. We'll let you know which documents are accepted when your appointment is arranged.
Housing benefit and universal credit
If you're unemployed or earn a low income, you may be able to claim housing benefit or universal credit to help pay your rent. You'll need to apply to your local council housing benefit office, or your Jobcentre Plus office for universal credit.
You should apply as soon as your tenancy starts. This is because although proof of tenancy is needed to accept your claim, the benefits might not be backdated to the day you moved in if you apply later.
If you already receive housing benefit or universal credit, you need to tell your local council housing benefit office or Jobcentre Plus office about your house move. If you don't, you risk losing benefits.
Rent and service charge payments
You need to pay rent from the first day of your tenancy. So for example, if you signed your tenancy on 15 June you'd need to pay for 15-30 June when you sign your tenancy agreement. Please bring a debit card to your sign-up appointment to make this first payment.
If you can't make your first rent payment because you receive housing benefit or universal credit, or you're unemployed and need to claim benefits, please bring proof of your current welfare benefits so we can delay the need to make this payment.
Set up a direct debit
You should make arrangements to pay your monthly rent. This is made up of rent and service charges and is normally charged on the 1st of each month.
