Tenants

When you sign a tenancy agreement, you enter a contract to pay rent in return for the right to live in the property. The agreement should state how much rent you must pay and when it is due—usually weekly or monthly, and in advance. If you don’t pay your rent, your landlord can apply to the court to evict you and recover the arrears.

If you are having trouble paying your rent, you should seek advice from your local Citizens Advice Bureau.

• Contact Citizens Advice (opens in new tab)

Most private tenants have to pay for electricity, gas, water, telephone, council tax and a TV licence.

Your tenancy agreement will state which bills you are responsible for. It is important when you move into a property to inform the relevant authorities that you are now responsible for paying the bills and again when you leave a property. If you don't, you may end up paying extra charges.

If you are claiming housing benefit or Universal Credit to help pay your rent, it is important that your claim is kept up to date and you advise the housing benefit section of any changes which may affect your claim straight away.

If you don't, your claim may be stopped and you could fall behind with your rent and face eviction.

If you are having difficulties with your claim or need advice, you can contact our housing benefits team.

• Contact the housing benefits team

Your landlord is usually responsible for repairing the property, but you should report any disrepair as soon as you notice it.

If you or your visitors cause damage, you must arrange and pay for the repair otherwise the cost may be taken from your deposit.

Tenants are also expected to handle minor tasks such as changing light bulbs, keeping the home clean and basic upkeep.

When you can leave a tenancy depends on whether you have a fixed term or periodic agreement.

Fixed term

If you have a set tenancy period (for example, a six‑month Assured Shorthold Tenancy), you normally can’t leave before the end of the term unless there is a break clause or your landlord agrees. You may leave on the final day of the fixed term without notice, though it’s best to inform your landlord, especially if you paid a deposit.

Periodic

If your tenancy runs from week to week or month to month, you must give written notice. This is usually at least four weeks, or one month if you pay monthly, and it should end on the day your rent is due. If you don’t end your tenancy correctly, you may still be responsible for the rent.