If you’ve rented for more than five minutes, you already know it comes with a mix of freedom, headaches, and a few “wait, no one told me that” moments. Whether you’re in a studio, a shared house, or a high-rise, these are the unspoken truths tenants know all too well—and how to handle them like a pro.

1. Maintenance Requests: The Waiting Game 🎭

You learn fast that “we’ll send someone tomorrow” often means “maybe next week.” The trick? Always put requests in writing, follow up politely, and keep a record. Bonus points if you learn your building’s handyman’s schedule and bribe them with coffee.

2. Security Deposit Survival

Every tenant has a horror story about a landlord who tried to keep their deposit for “wall scuffs” or “excessive dust.” Take photos when you move in and when you move out. And pro tip: a £4 tube of Polyfilla and an hour on YouTube can save you hundreds.

3. Neighbours Will Make or Break You

You don’t pick your neighbours, but you will hear their late-night karaoke, their dog’s separation anxiety, or their morning blender routine. Some will become your friends; others will become background noise. Earplugs and kindness go a long way.

4. Rent Day Rituals

Some people set reminders, some automate payments, and others live on the edge until the last possible minute. However you do it, one truth remains: rent day always sneaks up faster than you think.

5. Personalising Without Regretting It Later

That Pinterest wall mural looks great… until you realise you’ll have to cover it up before move-out. The golden rule: if it can’t be removed in 30 minutes or less, future-you is going to hate present-you.

6. The “It’s Not Really Mine” Mentality

It’s easy to treat a rental like a pit stop instead of a home. But here’s the secret: the more effort you put into making it comfortable now (even with temporary fixes), the happier you’ll be living there. Plants, good lighting, and a rug can work miracles.

Final Thought

Renting isn’t just a phase—it’s a lifestyle with its own quirks, lessons, and inside jokes. The more you lean into the rhythm of rental life, the easier (and funnier) it becomes.