Renting a home privately means you have certain rights and responsibilities that help keep things fair and straightforward for you and your landlord. Knowing what you’re entitled to can make a big difference in how smooth and secure your renting experience is. Here’s a simple guide to help you understand your rights, your landlord’s responsibilities, and what to do if things don’t go as planned.
If you’re unsure about anything, your local Whitegates branch is here to help with friendly advice tailored to your situation.
Your key rights as a private tenant
Private tenants in the UK are protected by laws designed to ensure safe homes and fair treatment. Here’s what you should know:
1. The right to a safe home
Your landlord must make sure the property is safe and in good condition. This includes:
- Keeping the structure sound: Walls, roofs, and windows should be secure and free from hazards like damp or leaks.
- Ensuring utilities are safe: Gas appliances should be checked annually by a registered engineer, and electrical systems must be in working order.
- Providing alarms for safety: Smoke alarms should be on every floor, and carbon monoxide detectors should be in rooms with solid fuel appliances, like wood burners.
If the property is unsafe, your local council can step in to ensure repairs or improvements are made.
2. Fair rent agreements
Your rent should be agreed upon when you move in, and any increases must follow proper procedures:
- Fixed-term tenancies: Rent cannot be increased unless the tenancy agreement allows it or you agree.
- Periodic tenancies: For ongoing arrangements, your landlord must give written notice of any increase—usually at least one month.
If you think a rent increase is unfair, you can challenge it through a tribunal.
3. Protection from unlawful eviction
Your landlord can’t make you leave without following the correct legal steps:
- You must receive written notice, and the length of notice depends on the type of tenancy.
- If you don’t leave after the notice period, your landlord must apply to the court for an eviction order.
Changing the locks or forcing you out without notice is illegal, and you can take legal action if this happens.
4. Deposit protection
Any deposit you pay must be placed in a government-approved scheme, such as the Deposit Protection Service (DPS). These schemes safeguard your money and ensure it’s returned at the end of the tenancy unless there are deductions for damage or unpaid rent.
5. The right to important documents
When you move in, your landlord should provide:
- An energy performance certificate (EPC): This shows how energy-efficient the property is.
- A gas safety certificate: Confirms gas appliances have been inspected within the last year.
- The ‘How to Rent’ guide: This official booklet explains your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.
Your responsibilities as a tenant
While you have rights, renting a property also means taking on certain responsibilities to help things run smoothly:
- Pay rent on time: This is a basic requirement of any tenancy agreement.
- Take care of the property: You’re expected to keep the property clean and carry out minor maintenance, like replacing lightbulbs or mowing the lawn.
- Report repairs: If something needs fixing, let your landlord know quickly to prevent the issue from getting worse.
- Allow access for repairs: Your landlord has a right to enter the property for repairs or inspections but must give you at least 24 hours’ notice, except in emergencies.
Related: The tenant’s guide to renting for the first time
What to do if problems arise
If issues crop up during your tenancy, here’s what you can do:
- Talk to your landlord: Most problems can be sorted out by having a conversation. Be clear about the issue and follow up in writing to keep a record.
- Contact your local council: If your landlord doesn’t act on repair requests or if the property is unsafe, your local council can step in to help.
- Seek advice: Housing organisations like Shelter or Citizens Advice can offer guidance if you’re unsure about your next steps.
Recent changes to tenant protections
The government is working on new rules to give tenants more security and improve housing standards. Key changes include:
- Ending ‘no-fault’ evictions: Section 21 evictions, which let landlords end tenancies without reason, are being phased out.
- Creating a private rental Ombudsman: This new service will help resolve disputes between landlords and tenants quickly and fairly.
- Raising property standards: All rental properties will have to meet minimum quality requirements under Awaab’s Law and the Decent Homes Standard.
These updates aim to make renting more predictable and fair for tenants.
How Whitegates can help
Renting can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when things don’t go as expected. At Whitegates, we’re here to make the process easier by offering advice and support when you need it.
Whether you have questions about your tenancy agreement, repairs, or rent changes, we’re always happy to help. Get in touch with your local branch today to chat with our friendly team and get the support you need.
