Private tenants rights and responsibilities

As a tenant in a private rented accommodation you will have certain rights and responsibilities as part of your tenancy. 

Your main rights and responsibilities are set out below however this is not an extensive list and it is always important to understand your individual tenancy agreement that is in place between you and your landlord. 

More detailed information about rights and responsibilities can be found in the governments How to rent guide.

Your rights are:

• To know the terms of the tenancy
• To know the name and address of the property owner
• To receive a receipt for all money paid. If rent is paid weekly, a rent book must be supplied by your landlord
• To have quiet enjoyment while living in the property
• To have proper notice if the owner wishes to inspect the property (generally 24 hours, except in an emergency)
• To have proper, valid notice if the owner wants you to leave
• To live in accommodation of a satisfactory standard
• To have your deposit returned when the tenancy ends, provided you leave it in the same condition that you moved in (excluding fair wear and tear and there are no rent arrears)
• To be protected from unlawful eviction

Your responsibilities include:

• To pay your rent on time even if there are unresolved repairs or you are in dispute with your landlord
• To take good care of the property
• You or your visitors should behave in a reasonable and responsible manner so as not to cause a nuisance or to interfere with the peace of the neighbours
• If you are given at least 24 hours' notice, your landlord or landlord’s agent has the right to come into your property to check what needs to be repaired, and to ensure that the property is not being damaged. It is your responsibility to allow reasonable access, but landlords cannot abuse this by requiring access too often
• To seek your landlord's permission before making alterations
• Not to sublet or take lodgers without asking permission, unless your contract allows you to do so
• If you wish to leave, give written notice to your landlord as per the terms of your agreement