Renting with GladStay
How it works
Renting a room with GladStay is designed to be clear, structured and stress-free. Below you’ll find how the process works, step by step — from finding a room to moving in.
- Holding deposit capped at one week’s rent
- Rent is due only once the tenancy agreement is fully signed
- Deposit protected with a government-approved DPS insured scheme
All bills included, no surprises
- Electricity
- Gas
- Water
- Council tax
- Internet
Phase 1
Before booking
Step 1 of 8
Find a room & enquire
Browse our available rooms and choose the one that fits your needs.
Once you’ve found a suitable option, simply send an enquiry through the listing.
Step 2 of 8
Book a viewing
Request a viewing from the listing and pick a time that works for you.
After booking, you’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details, including the address and any access instructions.
If you can’t find a suitable time slot, just contact us and we’ll arrange an alternative.
Good to know: Booking a viewing does not reserve the room. To reserve it, you’ll need to complete the application and pay the holding deposit.
Phase 2
Once you’ve chosen a room
Step 3 of 8
Apply & reserve
To reserve the room, you’ll pay a holding deposit (capped at one week’s rent) and complete the application form with your details.
After submitting the form, you’ll receive an email asking you to complete the required checks, including Right to Rent and references.
Step 4 of 8
Right to Rent (mandatory)
Right to Rent checks are mandatory in England and must be completed before moving in.
You’ll receive clear instructions by email on how to provide your documents.
Important: Without completed Right to Rent checks, we can’t legally move forward.
Step 5 of 8
References & approval
We run the referencing checks based on the option selected, which may include affordability checks and/or a landlord reference.
Once the checks are completed and approved, we’ll confirm the next step.
Step 6 of 8
Agreement signing
After approval, you’ll receive the tenancy agreement via DocuSign.
Please note: Keys can only be released once the agreement is fully signed.
Step 7 of 8
Move-in payments
Once the agreement is signed, you’ll pay the remaining move-in balance, which includes the deposit and rent as agreed.
Important: Rent is due only after the tenancy agreement has been fully signed.
Step 8 of 8
Check-in & move-in
At check-in, you’ll need to bring your original ID where legally required.
We’ll record the condition of the room with photos or video, hand over the keys, and you can move in.
Ready to find your room?
If you’re ready to move forward, browse available rooms and book a viewing in just a few clicks.
Frequently asked questions
Can’t find your answer? Message us on WhatsApp (opens in a new tab) or write to info@gladstay.co.uk.
Do I need to pay a holding deposit to reserve a room?
Yes. To reserve a room, you need to pay a holding deposit (capped at one week’s rent) and complete the application form.
What documents do I need to rent a room?
You’ll need to complete mandatory Right to Rent checks and references, depending on the option selected. We’ll guide you step by step after you apply.
What happens if I pay the holding deposit and then change my mind?
In some cases, the holding deposit may be retained, for example if you withdraw, fail Right to Rent checks or provide misleading information. We follow the Tenant Fees Act.
Is my deposit protected?
Yes. Your tenancy deposit is protected with a government-approved DPS insured scheme.
Is the deposit refundable?
Yes. The deposit is refundable at the end of your stay, subject to checks for damages, missing items, extra cleaning or unpaid rent.
When do I pay rent?
Rent is due only once the tenancy agreement has been fully signed.
How long does the tenancy last?
Our standard assured periodic Contract run monthly with no fixed end date. You can give notice at any time. Normally, you need to give at least two months’ written notice, with the tenancy ending on a rent due date or the day before. Rent remains payable during the notice period.
Can I pay weekly?
No. Rent payments are monthly.
Is there any extra monthly fee?
No. There are no extra monthly fees. The rent is all-inclusive.
What’s included in the kitchen?
Shared kitchens are equipped with essential appliances and items, including oven/cooker, microwave, toaster, kettle, fridge/freezer, plus basic utensils and cookware.
Can I get cleaning for my room?
Yes. Cleaning for your room can be arranged as an extra service at £20 per hour.
Do you provide bedding and towels?
Not by default. When you send a request, you can add the GladStay Bedding Pack for £77 or the Bedding Pack Plus, with towels and a laundry bag, for £107. Every room comes with a GladStay Welcome Kit.
Can I keep a pet?
Please send us a written request describing your pet. We consider each request individually and will not unreasonably refuse permission. We consider the home, shared spaces, other residents and any relevant lease restrictions. If you need an assistance animal, please tell us so we can discuss reasonable adjustments.