Private tenants

If you live in private rented accommodation and are at risk of being homeless, we can help:

• check the notice is valid
• speak to your landlord

If your landlord has served a notice, you may be able to get help to pay your rent.

Contact us on:

• 01803 208723 - Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
• 0300 456 4876 - emergency out of hours - homeless only
• 07810 548004 - out of Hours hearing impaired SMS number

Your rights

As a tenant, you have the right to:

• live in a property that is safe and in a good state of repair
• have your deposit protected and returned when your tenancy ends
• live in the property undisturbed
• know who your landlord is
• challenge high charges
• see the Energy Performance Certificate for the property
• see the Gas Safety Certificate for the property
• be protected from unfair eviction
• have a written agreement if you have a fixed-term tenancy of more than three years

Your responsibilities

As a tenant, you must:

• give your landlord access to the property to inspect it or carry out repairs. They must give you 24 hours’ notice.
• take good care of the property
• pay the agreed rent, even if repairs are needed or if 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 your friends
• only sublet a property if the tenancy agreement or your landlord says you can

Your landlord may evict you if you do not meet your responsibilities.

Protection from harassment and illegal eviction

It is illegal for your landlord to:

• interfere with your peace or comfort
• withdraw or withhold the services you need to live in the premises as a home

If you are being harassed or have been illegally evicted, you should contact us.