To ask for private rent advise?

[Polishedpebble2]

I’m (hopefully) moving next month to a private rent house. I found it via open rent, have viewed it twice and happy on both times.

The landlord asked for some documents as affordability check (payslips) and proof of id, proof of current address etc. He got back to me today saying he’s happy to proceed, and for me to let him know what moving date in June works for us.

So the only issue is, I’m currently renting from a large letting agents, so knew it was all legitimate when I moved in - is there any way to check or enquire with this new landlord, to check he and the property are legitimate? He hasn’t asked for any fees or deposit yet which I know is a red flag for scam, I’ve viewed the property but haven’t met him directly, WIBU to insist that payments go via the protected OpenRent platform rather than privately? Just want to make sure there’s no chance I could be being scammed here!
Tia :)

Your deposit needs to be in a protected deposit scheme, ask which one he plans on using. Ask for copies of the gas safety certificate and/or electrical checks. Make sure you get a contract, an assured short hold tenancy is standard and that it’s signed by the landlord and you and you both have a copy. You can also ask to do a check in inventory which you can reference when you leave the property and so there’s a record of any damage on move in.
There’s lots of advice on websites like Shelter for renters rights, I suggest having a look there for more information.

You can check that he owns the place for a few pounds on the Land Registry website.

It's illegal to charge fees now.

Read the How to Rent Guide available from the gov.uk website to ensure you are up to date. The landlord still has to provide you with a copy themselves on the day your tenancy starts though, whether you've read it or not.