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Tenant Rights & Responsibilities

1. Your Key Rights as a Tenant

Safe & Habitable Living Conditions
You have the right to live in a property that is safe, clean, and properly maintained. Landlords are responsible for:

  • Structural repairs

  • Heating, plumbing, gas, and electrical safety

  • Working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms

Deposit Protection
Your deposit must be registered with a government-approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme (TDS) within 30 days. This protects your money and outlines how any deductions are handled.

Quiet Enjoyment
You’re entitled to peaceful enjoyment of your home. Your landlord must provide at least 24 hours’ notice before entering (except in emergencies) and must visit at a reasonable time.

2. Understanding Your Tenancy Agreement

Most tenants rent under an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST), which covers:

  • Rent under £100,000 per year

  • Individuals or joint tenants

  • Long-term or periodic arrangements

Your tenancy agreement will include:

  • Rent amount and payment terms

  • Duration and notice periods

  • Responsibilities (yours and your landlord’s)

  • Clauses on pets, break clauses, and access rights

3. Repairs & Maintenance: Who Does What?

Landlord’s Responsibilities:

  • Fix structural issues, boilers, and essential utilities

  • Carry out gas and electrical safety checks

  • Provide valid safety certificates

Tenant’s Responsibilities:

  • Report issues promptly

  • Replace lightbulbs and batteries

  • Keep the home clean, ventilated, and free from avoidable damage

Reporting Repairs:
Follow the reporting process in your agreement. Use email, phone, or your online portal. For urgent issues, call the emergency line provided.

4. Rent, Payments & Financial Obligations

Paying Rent:
Rent must be paid on time as outlined in your agreement. Struggling to pay? Contact your landlord or Haymills early—we’ll work with you to find a solution.

Other Costs You May Be Responsible For:

  • Utilities (gas, electric, water)

  • Council tax

  • TV licence and internet

  • Reasonable charges under the Tenant Fees Act 2019

In Shared Housing (HMO):
Your landlord may cover council tax and some utilities—check your agreement for details.

5. Rent Increases & Landlord Access

Rent Increases:

  • Can only occur once per year in periodic tenancies

  • Must be fair and reflect market rates

  • Require appropriate notice

Access to Your Property:

  • Minimum 24 hours’ notice required

  • Visits must be for valid reasons (e.g., inspections or repairs)

  • You can refuse entry if proper notice isn't given

6. Understanding Notices: Section 21 & Section 8

Section 21 (No-Fault Notice):

  • Used to regain possession at the end of a fixed term

  • Requires 2 months’ notice

  • Only valid if legal conditions have been met (e.g., deposit protection)

Section 8 (Notice with Grounds):

  • Used when a tenant breaches their agreement (e.g., rent arrears)

  • Notice period depends on the reason

  • Can be challenged in court if grounds are not valid

7. Health & Safety Standards in Rentals

Your landlord must ensure:

  • Gas Safety: Annual gas checks and certificate provided

  • Electrical Safety: Five-year inspections and EICR supplied

  • Fire Safety: Working smoke alarms and CO detectors on relevant floors

  • Licensing for HMOs: Additional fire and safety standards apply

8. Living with Pets

If you have a pet or plan to get one:

  • Check your tenancy agreement

  • Ask permission in writing

  • Be prepared to cover any pet-related damage

See our guide: [Renting with Pets]

9. Ending Your Tenancy

When You’re Ready to Leave:

  • Give written notice as per your agreement

  • Prepare the property for check-out

  • Attend the final inspection

  • Redirect post and settle bills

  • Cancel any recurring rent payments

Your Deposit Return:
You’ll receive your deposit minus any agreed deductions. If there’s a disagreement, the Tenancy Deposit Scheme offers free dispute resolution.

10. Need Help? Haymills Is Here for You

Whether you have a question, a concern, or need legal support—we’re here to help:

  • Transparent, legally sound tenancy agreements

  • Responsive property management and repair coordination

  • Assistance with rental disputes or deposit issues

  • Online access to rent payments and documents

Contact Haymills branch or visit our office.

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