The Furniture and Furnishings (Fire) (Safety Regulations) Act 1989 is very strict on fire and safety of soft furnishings. The introduction of this law had huge implications for landlords and has resulted in a scarcity of furnished properties. However, when available a furnished property will have the basic furniture, and may sometimes contain cutlery, crockery, saucepans etc. They do not include televisions, music systems, or bedlinen.

Unfurnished accommodation includes carpets or some other floor covering, and customarily would also include curtains and a cooker. In some properties there may be a fridge and washing machine included.