A bond is, in most circumstances, payable and is held by a 'Tenancy Service', rather than the landlord directly - you then have to apply to them to have your bond returned at the expiration of the tenancy. (The bond is usually the equivalent of 4 weeks rent). Rent is generally paid monthly in advance, but will depend on each particular landlord. Methods of payment again, are variable but are usually direct bank credit.
HTH and welcome to the forum
