Rent in advance: one month at most, and only after signing
A landlord or agent can't ask for, encourage or accept rent before you have signed the tenancy agreement. After signing, the most they can ask for in advance is one month's rent.
Source: GOV.UK: Renters' Rights Act overview for tenants. Checked 18/10/2026. In force from 01/05/2026.
Check your contract against this
Legal information, not legal advice. For your own situation, Shelter (england.shelter.org.uk) and Citizens Advice (citizensadvice.org.uk) give free advice.