Help with private renting

You have certain rights and responsibilities if you're a tenant in a privately rented property.

What are your rights?

As a tenant, you've the right to:

• live in a property that's safe and in a good state of repair
• have your deposit returned when the tenancy ends - and in some cases have it protected by Tenancy Deposit Protection (opens new window)
• challenge high charges
• know who your landlord is
• live in the property undisturbed
• see an Energy Performance Certificate (opens new window) for the property
• be protected from unfair eviction and unfair rent
• have a written agreement if you have a fixed-term tenancy of more than 3 years

If you have a tenancy agreement (opens new window), it should be fair and follow the law.

If you do not know who your landlord is, write to the person or company you pay rent to. Your landlord can be fined if they do not give you this information within 21 days.

What are your responsibilities?

You should give your landlord access to the property to inspect it or carry out repairs. Your landlord must give you at least 24 hours' notice. They must visit at a reasonable time of day, unless it's an emergency and they need immediate access.

You must also:

• take good care of the property, for example turn off the water at the mains if you're away in cold weather
• pay the agreed rent, even if repairs are needed or you're in dispute with your landlord
• pay other charges as agreed with the landlord, for example Council Tax or utility bills
• repair or pay for any damage caused by you, your family or friends
• only sublet a property (opens new window) if the tenancy agreement or your landlord allows it

Your landlord has the right to take legal action to evict you if you do not meet your responsibilities.