Tenants rights and responsibilities

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
• HMO’s must ensure there are adequate facilities for cooking, washing, and waste for each of the tenants
• HMOs with five or more tenants must be licensed by the local council. This ensures the property meets specific safety and living standards

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

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 or any of the organisations below: