Landlord responsibilities
Before renting out a room or property, private landlords and agents are legally required to check your immigration status and the status of any adult who is living with you.
This is called a right to rent check.
Start of tenancy information
At the start of your tenancy the landlord must give you:
an energy performance certificate (EPC) - unless you are a lodger
a gas safety certificate if your home has gas appliances
If you have an assured shorthold tenancy that started or was renewed on or after 1 October 2015, your landlord must also give you a copy of the How to rent guide.
Tenancy deposits
Your landlord must protect your tenancy deposit in a deposit protection scheme if you're an assured shorthold tenant.
If your deposit should have been protected but wasn't:
you can claim compensation
it can be more difficult for your landlord to end your tenancy
Lodgers' deposits don't have to be protected.
Your landlord should return your deposit when your tenancy ends unless they have a reason to make deductions.
Repairs
Your landlord is responsible for most repairs in your home.
If your landlord needs access to the property to inspect its condition they should:
give at least 24 hours notice in writing
arrange a suitable time to visit
Health and safety
Your landlord must:
arrange gas safety checks every 12 months by a Gas Safe registered engineer
provide smoke alarms on each floor and carbon monoxide detectors in any room with a coal fire or wood burning stove
Smoke alarms are not required if you live with your landlord.
Rent and rent increases
Your landlord must tell you when and how your rent should be paid. If you pay your rent weekly, your landlord must provide a rent book.
Landlords must follow rules on rent increases that vary according to the type of tenancy you have.
They could also get you to pay more with a fair usage clause if your rent includes utility bills.
Letting you enjoy your home
Landlords must let you live in your home without unnecessary interference.
Your landlord should not let themselves into your home without your permission.
Your landlord should not harass you or make it difficult for you to live in your home.
Eviction rules
Eviction is a legal process that takes time. There are 3 stages for most private renters:
notice
court action
eviction by bailiffs
If your landlord or agent does not follow the legal process it could be an illegal eviction.
You have fewer rights if you're a lodger who lives with your landlord.
Notice from your landlord
Most private renters have assured shorthold tenancies.
Assured shorthold tenants can usually be evicted using the section 21 eviction process.
Find out about eviction notices if you have a different type of tenancy.
Last updated: 22 July 2022