Renting privately – your tenancy

Your responsibilities

You should not breach the terms of your tenancy agreement as you could then lose your home.

You will also be expected to:

  • pay your rent on time
  • report any anti-social behaviour issues to the landlord
  • tell the landlord about any repairs
  • not allow the property to become overcrowded
  • not cause nuisance to neighbours by you or your guests
  • keep all gardens, balconies and communal areas tidy and free from rubbish.

Tenancy agreement

A tenancy agreement is a contract between you and your landlord that agrees the legal terms and conditions of your tenancy. The agreement protects you and the landlord.

The agreement should contain:

  • The type of agreement - check the type of tenancy, usually they are short-term assured tenancies running for six to 12 months
  • The landlord's name and contact details and your name as the tenant
  • The property's address
  • Rules on rent including the date when it should be paid and arrangements to review it
  • Who must pay the gas, electric, water and Council Tax bills
  • The deposit amount and the conditions for withholding for damages
  • How any repairs will be organised
  • The date your tenancy ends or comes up for renewal.

If you feel confused by what you read you can get help from the Stratford Advice Arcade and Citizens Advice Bureau.