How to Rent

The government guide for tenants in England. A checklist for renting and your rights and responsibilities.

About This Guide

This guide is based on the government's "How to Rent" booklet which landlords must provide to tenants before they move into an assured shorthold tenancy in England. It contains important information about your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

Official Government Guide

For the full official guide, visit GOV.UK How to Rent

Tenant Checklist

Check the property and fixtures

Before you move in, check the property thoroughly. Note any existing damage or issues on the inventory and take dated photos. This protects your deposit when you move out.

Know who your landlord is

You have the right to know your landlord's name and address. If a letting agent manages the property, they must give you this information within 21 days of your written request.

Understand your tenancy agreement

Read your tenancy agreement carefully before signing. It's a legally binding contract that sets out your rights and responsibilities. Ask questions about anything you don't understand.

Check your deposit is protected

Your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receiving it. You should receive details of which scheme holds your deposit.

Make sure you have a valid Energy Performance Certificate

Landlords must provide a valid EPC with a rating of E or above (unless exempt). This shows the property's energy efficiency and estimated energy costs.

Check the gas and electrical safety

Ask for copies of the Gas Safety Certificate and Electrical Installation Condition Report. Gas checks must be done annually by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Get receipts for your payments

Always get receipts for rent and other payments. Keep records of all transactions including bank transfers. This provides proof of payment if disputes arise.

Know how to end your tenancy

Understand the notice period required to end your tenancy. For periodic tenancies, you usually need to give at least one month's notice ending on the first or last day of a tenancy period.

Your Rights as a Tenant

What you are entitled to as a tenant

Live in a property that's safe, in a good state of repair, and free from hazards
Have your deposit returned when the tenancy ends, minus any agreed deductions
Challenge unfair fees or charges
Know who your landlord is
Live undisturbed (landlords must give 24 hours' notice before visiting)
See an Energy Performance Certificate for the property
Be protected from unfair eviction and unfair rent increases
Have a written agreement if you have a fixed-term tenancy of more than 3 years

Your Responsibilities

What is expected of you as a tenant

Pay the agreed rent on time
Pay utility bills (unless included in rent)
Look after the property
Carry out minor repairs and maintenance
Not sublet or have lodgers without permission
Report any problems or damage promptly
Allow access for repairs (with proper notice)
Leave the property in good condition at the end of the tenancy

Need Help?

Resources and support for tenants

Citizens Advice

Free, confidential advice on housing issues including problems with landlords, repairs, and deposits.

Shelter

Housing charity providing advice and support for people with housing problems.

Have questions about renting with us? Contact our team - we're here to help you through every step.