Tenant rights and responsibilities
Overview
The government publishes guidance on private renting which can be found by visiting private renting (GOV.UK). Your rights and responsibilities are set out below and more information can be found in the how to rent guide (GOV.UK) which should be read and followed.
Your rights are:
- To know the terms of the tenancy
- To know the name and address of the property owner
- To receive a receipt for all money paid. If rent is paid weekly, a rent book must be supplied by your landlord
- To have quiet enjoyment while living in the property
- To have proper notice if the owner wishes to inspect the property (generally 24 hours, except in an emergency)
- To have proper, valid notice if the owner wants you to leave
- To live in accommodation of a satisfactory standard
- To have your deposit returned when the tenancy ends, provided you leave it in the same condition that you moved in (excluding fair wear and tear and there are no rent arrears)
- To be protected from unlawful eviction
Your responsibilities include:
- To pay your rent on time even if there are unresolved repairs or you are in dispute with your landlord
- To take good care of the property
- You or your visitors should behave in a reasonable and responsible manner so as not to cause a nuisance or to interfere with the peace of the neighbours
- If you are given at least 24 hours' notice, your landlord or landlord’s agent has the right to come into your property to check what needs to be repaired, and to ensure that the property is not being damaged. It is your responsibility to allow reasonable access, but landlords cannot abuse this by requiring access too often
- To seek your landlord's permission before making alterations
- Not to sublet or take lodgers without asking permission, unless your contract allows you to do so
- If you wish to leave, give written notice to your landlord as per the terms of your agreement
You will likely have other responsibilities over and above those outlined above. If you have a written agreement, read it carefully before signing.
Last updated: 27/11/2023 12:06
