News Archive for 2026

True Cost of Renting in Leicester 2026 | Budget Guide | First 4 Lettings

What does it really cost to rent in Leicester in 2026? We break down all the upfront and ongoing costs — from deposits to bills — so you can budget accurately.

Written by: Dechlan Connell

How to Pass a Rental Reference Check in Leicester 2026 | First 4 Lettings

Worried about passing a rental reference check in Leicester? Here's exactly what letting agents look for — and how to give yourself the best chance of being approved.

Written by: Dechlan Connell Source: Advice for first time landlord’s to the UK market

Student Accommodation Leicester 2026/27 | Still Available? | First 4 Lettings

Looking for student accommodation in Leicester for 2026/27? Here's how to find the best houses near University of Leicester and De Montfort — and what to do if you've left it late.

Written by: Dechlan Connell

Living in Clarendon Park Leicester | Renter's Guide 2026 | First 4 Lettings

Thinking of renting in Clarendon Park, Leicester? Our complete guide covers transport, schools, cafés, parks and everything you need to know before moving in.

Written by: Dechlan Connell

The Renters' Rights Act is now law — what every Leicester landlord needs to know

The Renters' Rights Act came into force on 1st May 2026. Here's what has changed for Leicester landlords — and what you need to do before 31st May 2026 to avoid a fine.

Written by: Dechlan Connell

Why the Renters’ Rights Act 2025 Means It’s Time to Go Fully Managed

From May 2026, the private rented sector will enter a new era under the Renters’ Rights Act.

Written by: Yash Parmar

Celebrating 20 Years of First 4 Lettings!

This year marks a very special milestone for First 4 Lettings!

Written by: Lewis Hemmings

Fees

PERMITTED PAYMENTS

As well as paying the rent, you may also be required to make the following permitted payments:

1) Holding Deposit: Up to one week’s rental

2) Deposit: One month’s rental (5 weeks rental dependent on individual’s circumstances)

3) Payments for utilities (gas, electricity & water), communication services (telephone & broadband), Installation/Subscription of cable/satellite, TV licence and council tax

4) Default Fee (late payment of rent): If full Rent is not paid within 14 days or more of the Rent Due Date there will be a charge 3% plus the Bank of England base interest rate of the full rental amount until full payment is received

5) Default Fee (breach of tenancy agreement, any other permitted payments, under relevant legislation including contractual damages): For any breach of the tenancy agreement based on the reasonably incurred costs of the agent or landlord

6) Replacement of keys, fobs or other security devices

7) Default Fee (changes to the tenancy): An administrative charge of £50.00 or greater for any assignment, variation or novation of the tenancy agreement made at the tenant’s request (only if agreed by The Landlord and/or The Landlord’s Agent)

8) Payments in respect of early termination of a tenancy agreement at the tenant’s request


TENANT PROTECTION

First 4 Lettings is a member of Client Money Protect which is a client money protection scheme, and also a member of PRS (Property Redress Scheme), which is a redress scheme.