Commencing tenancy checks are for landlords to satisfy themselves that a prospective tenant is suitable. The tenancy process will involve tenant credit checks, obtaining references and agreeing the contract, whether a HMO licensing agreement or a single tenant occupancy that will be signed between the landlord and their tenant; commonly known as an assured shorthold tenancy agreement (an AST).

Both landlord & tenant must understand their obligations under the tenancy agreement and therefore landlords / agents should always allow tenants and guarantors time to read all items in the tenancy agreement before signing it.