Understanding Renters Rights in the UK

Understanding Renters Rights in the UK: What Every Tenant Should Know

Letting Landlords

Posted in Oct 18 , 2024

For tenants across the UK, renting a property can sometimes feel daunting due to complex contract rules that may shift towards the landlords. But, if you’re fully aware of the rights, it can change the scenario instantly, ensuring that you are protected and given power during your renting time. The government has created the right to offer a fair environment with a competitive grounding in the rental market.

What are Renters' Rights in the UK?

Renters rights in the UK are primarily governed by a series of regulations aimed at safeguarding tenants, regardless of their rental situation. Whether you are renting through a private landlord, housing association, or a letting agent, these protections are fundamental to ensuring your wellbeing as a tenant. These rights don’t just benefit tenants; they also create a clear structure for landlords, ensuring mutual respect and clear communication. Let’s have a look at some of the common rights in the Government Act:

1. Right to a Safe and Habitable Home

One of the most common rights for renters is the right to live in a safe and habitable home. Under the Homes (Fitness for Human Habitation) Act 2018, landlords are required to maintain the property to a standard that is free from hazards. This includes primary areas like heating, electrical safety, and the overall structural condition of the building. If your landlord fails to address safety concerns, tenants are encouraged to report these issues and can even take legal action if necessary.

2. Deposit Protection

There was a time when tenants would lose their deposits for no actual reason, but this law was changed after the Tenancy Deposit Protection (TDP) schemes. Government-backed schemes ensure that your deposit is safe and will be returned if the terms of your tenancy are met. This means landlords cannot simply withhold your deposit, and if they do, tenants have the power to file a case against this. As a tenant, you should understand how these schemes work and your ability to claim compensation if your deposit is mishandled.

3. Fair Rent and Transparency

UK rental agreements must be transparent, meaning landlords cannot increase rent suddenly. Under UK law, landlords must outline rent increases within the tenancy agreement, and these must reflect the rental market rates. Suppose you feel that your rent increase is unfair. In that case, there are possibilities to challenge this via the First-tier Tribunal, which is a valuable protection for renters in today’s economic climate.

4. Right to Peaceful Enjoyment

Renters are legally entitled to enjoy their rented home without unnecessary interference from the landlord. This protection, known as the right to quiet enjoyment, ensures that landlords cannot enter your property without appropriate notice. If a landlord consistently violates this right by showing up unannounced, or behaves in a harassing manner, tenants have the ability to seek legal recourse. It is a vital protection, ensuring that tenants feel secure and respected during their tenancy.

5. Eviction Procedures

Eviction is a stressful situation for any tenant, but landlords must follow strict procedures in the UK to carry out a lawful eviction. There are two main eviction routes: a Section 21 notice (no fault) and a Section 8 notice (breach of tenancy terms). If you understand these processes, you can clarify your rights to challenge an eviction, especially if it seems unjust or improperly handled. Knowing when and how you can contest an eviction is the key, especially as the rental landscape becomes increasingly competitive.

6. Right to Information

Landlords are legally required to provide tenants with certain documents, such as the How to Rent guide, an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), and a Gas Safety Certificate. These documents ensure that you are informed about your rights and the condition of the property. If your landlord does not provide these, it could affect their ability to legally evict you. So, you can ask about these documents; if they still fail to provide, you can take it up to the council.

7. Maintenance and Repairs

One of the most common issues faced by tenants is maintenance. As a renter, you have the right to live in a property that is in good condition. This includes functioning heating systems, plumbing, and structural integrity. If repairs are not carried out in a timely manner, you may request compensation or carry out the repairs yourself and deduct the cost from your rent (with proper legal advice from a company like Cribs Estate).

8. Protection from Discrimination

The Equality Act 2010 protects tenants from discrimination based on characteristics such as race, gender, disability, and more. If you feel that you have been discriminated against when renting, whether during the application process or as a current tenant, you can take legal action to ensure your rights are upheld.

9. Rent Repayment Orders

If your landlord operates without the required licenses or breaches housing laws, tenants can apply for a Rent Repayment Order (RRO). With this step, you can claim back up to 12 months' worth of rent if the landlord still needs to follow the correct legal procedures. This is relevant mainly in areas with Selective Licensing schemes.

10. Freedom to Challenge Unfair Fees

Under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, tenants are protected from being charged excessive or hidden fees by letting agents or landlords. The law has a bracket for holding deposits, bans administrative fees, and restricts charges related to contract changes, key replacements, and late rent payments. If you think you are charged unfairly, you can report it to your local council or the Trading Standards authority.

How Can Cribs Estates Help?

Cribs Estates supports tenants across the UK, ensuring that renters are well-informed about their rights and protected throughout their tenancy. Whether you need help understanding your contract, resolving disputes with your landlord, or ensuring your deposit is secured properly, Cribs Estates is there to assist. Our expertise in property management and tenant advocacy ensures that you get the fair treatment you deserve, making your renting experience smooth and transparent.

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Eviction Service for Landlords

If you're a landlord, you'll probably agree that evicting a tenant is never easy. Still, it sometimes becomes necessary for the protection of the property or other valid reasons. Whether the issue is pending rent arrears or property damage, or even a breach in the tenancy agreement, going around the eviction road can be a stressful job. That is why professional eviction service for landlords is on the rise in London.In the UK, the eviction process requires a deep understanding of legal procedures, notice periods, and compliance with laws. For landlords facing a similar issue, here’s a blog that can save them time and legal headaches. When is an eviction service needed?It’s a highly complex question, but landlords often try to resolve their issues by directly talking to tenants. When this fails, especially in cases where rent arrears are pending or behavioral issues are present, eviction becomes practical. In England, landlords must follow legal compliance, so they cannot simply ask tenants to evict without a valid reason. In the event of a wrong notice or failure to follow the legal process, landlords may face court proceedings, penalties, or the court rejecting the eviction notice. This is why landlords hire eviction services to handle this issue professionally. What does an eviction service for Landlords do?The eviction service handles the entire legal process of evicting tenants legally and returning possession to the landlords. These services may include:Drafting the eviction notices and serving them legally under sections 8 and 21. Making sure the notices comply with legal laws.Attaching all court applications in case of any legal possession.Arranging court bailiffs or High Court officers if they are needed. Assisting landlords with their rights to avoid any hefty fines. Some services also provide legal representation in court, keeping you informed at every stage of the process.Section 21 vs Section 8: What’s the difference?A good eviction service will advise you on whether a Section 21 or Section 8 notice is appropriate.Section 21 is often used for ‘no fault’ evictions — for example, if a landlord simply wants their property back after the fixed term of the tenancy has ended. However, there are strict requirements, such as having provided a valid Energy Performance Certificate, Gas Safety Certificate, and a copy of the How to Rent guide.Section 8 is used when a tenant has broken the terms of their tenancy agreement — usually due to rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, or property damage. The notice must specify the grounds for eviction and include relevant evidence.Choosing the wrong route or failing to meet these requirements can cause delays or invalidation, which is why an expert service is so valuable.Eviction timeframes and delaysThe eviction process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the circumstances and how cooperative the tenant is. If the tenant leaves voluntarily after receiving a notice, the process is fairly straightforward.However, if the tenant refuses to leave, landlords may need to apply for a possession order from the court. In some cases, enforcement action via court bailiffs or High Court officers may be necessary, which adds further time and cost.An experienced eviction service helps avoid unnecessary delays by ensuring every step is done correctly and efficiently. They know how to prepare and present the case in a way that aligns with current legal expectations.Cost of eviction service for Landlords in the UKCosts vary depending on the level of support required. A simple notice service might cost under £200, whilst full court representation and bailiff involvement can rise to £1,000 or more.Some providers offer fixed-fee packages that include the entire process from notice to possession, which gives landlords clarity and peace of mind. Considering the potential cost of rent loss, property damage, or legal errors, professional services are often well worth the investment.Can landlords evict tenants themselves?Technically, landlords can serve notices and apply to court themselves. However, the law is complex and always changing. Mistakes are common and can cost time, money, and credibility in court.For example, serving a Section 21 notice without having protected the tenant’s deposit in a government-approved scheme makes the notice invalid. Similarly, issuing a notice without correct dates or documentation often leads to failure in court.A professional eviction service ensures that every legal requirement is met, reducing stress for landlords and ensuring the best chance of a successful outcome.How Cribs Estates Can HelpAt Cribs Estates, we understand how challenging and sensitive the eviction process can be. Our experienced team provides reliable, legally compliant eviction services for landlords across London and beyond.We’ll guide you through every stage, from serving the correct notice to court representation and enforcement, all whilst keeping your property and interests protected. Whether you're dealing with rent arrears, tenancy breaches, or simply need your property back, we offer fast, effective, and discreet solutions tailored to your situation.Let our professionals handle the legalities, so you can focus on what matters most — maintaining a successful property investment. Get in touch with Cribs Estates today for expert eviction support and peace of mind.

Landlord Gas Safety Certificate and Boiler Service

Being a landlord and living in the UK comes with many responsibilities, the most important of which is gas safety. When you have a rental property that has appliances running, it is required to have a Gas Safety Certificate legally, and not just as an option. Add boiler service to this to ensure the safety of your tenants and the property. To take a close look at what landlord gas safety certificate and boiler service is, and what the things are if you want to avoid getting into trouble, it is recommended to read the blog in detail. What Is a Landlord's Gas Safety Certificate?The certificate, also known as the CP12, is an official record that confirms all the gas appliances, fittings, and flues have been inspected by the Gas Safe authorities and considered safe for use. It is also a legal requirement described in the law stated in the Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998. The certificate must be renewed every 12 months, and a copy must be given to the tenants within 28 days of the inspection. When the new tenants move in, they should already have a copy before they start living. The certificate covers the following:1. Gas appliances like boilers, cookers, and fires. 2. All kinds of ventilation routes and chimneys.3. Gas pipework and connections.4. Operations pressure and all kinds of safety devices. Do I Need a Boiler Service Too?Boiler service is always recommended because it differs from a gas safety check. With the boiler service, you get a more detailed inspection of the components and the overall performance. Whilst gas and safety checks inform you about safety, the overall service will ensure everything works fine. When the service starts, the engineer will start cleaning the internal parts, check for the signs of wear, inspect the pressure levels, and look for any faults. Manufacturers recommend that the boiler be serviced annually, and often the warranty of the boilers becomes invalid if they are not serviced annually, leaving you to pay for more in the long run.Are Both Legally Required?Landlords are legally required to get a Gas Safety Certificate every year; there are no exceptions. In contrast, the boiler service is not legally required, but it is a good practice, and its failure can lead to leaks, breakdowns, and other issues that will lead to paying more in repairs. Who Can Issue a Gas Safety Certificate?Only an engineer registered as a Gas Safety person can inspect and issue a certificate. Landlords can check the qualifications by searching for their Gas Safe ID number on the official website. Using a person who is not properly trained and certified is not legal, so you should not be allowed to check and give suggestions. Apart from this issue, you will be putting tenants' lives at risk, facing huge fines and even jail time for any accident that may occur at any stage. How Much Does It Cost?The cost of a Gas Safety Certificate typically ranges from £60 to £90, depending on your location and how many appliances need checking.A standard boiler service can cost between £70 and £120, though some engineers offer a combined deal for both services, which could save you money. If you manage multiple properties, you might also be able to negotiate a discounted rate for bulk inspections.Remember: going for the cheapest option isn’t always wise. Make sure the engineer is reputable and that their inspection is thorough. Cutting corners when it comes to gas safety is never worth the risk.What Happens If I Don’t Get One?Failing to provide a valid Gas Safety Certificate is a serious offence. Local authorities can impose unlimited fines, and in extreme cases where tenant safety has been compromised, you could face imprisonment.It can also have major implications on eviction proceedings. Under Section 21 of the Housing Act, you must have provided your tenants with a valid Gas Safety Certificate at the start of the tenancy. If you didn’t, it could prevent you from legally regaining possession of your property.Insurance companies may also reject claims if your property wasn’t properly maintained, leaving you to foot the bill for any gas-related incidents.Why It Pays to Stay ProactiveHaving both your Gas Safety Certificate and boiler service done together is the smart way to stay compliant and save money. Booking both at the same time means fewer visits, reduced admin, and often a lower combined price.Proactive landlords not only meet legal standards, but they also gain the trust and satisfaction of their tenants. A well-maintained heating system reduces emergency callouts, helps retain tenants longer, and avoids last-minute panic during winter breakdowns.How Cribs Estates Can HelpAt Cribs Estates, we make gas safety compliance hassle-free for landlords. We partner with trusted Gas Safe engineers to ensure your properties are inspected promptly and thoroughly. Whether you need a single certificate or annual services across a portfolio, we handle all the coordination, from scheduling to paperwork.Our team also arranges regular boiler servicing to keep your heating system in top condition, helping you avoid expensive repairs and keeping tenants warm all year round.Let us take care of your landlord responsibilities whilst you focus on growing your rental income. Get in touch with Cribs Estates today to book your Gas Safety Certificate and boiler service with complete peace of mind.

How Much do Letting Agents Charge Landlords

Landlords considering letting a property in the UK know that the process can be rewarding but demanding. The most common way landlords handle multiple properties outside their living areas is by hiring reliable and cost-effective letting agents. If you’re thinking about managing your properties but don’t know how much letting agents charge landlords, and what you're paying them for, here’s a brief breakdown of how the fees are calculated and whether it’s worth the investment. The Standard Fee Structure: What to ExpectThe fee structure in the UK depends on the list of services provided, which is why most companies offer 3-tier services: finding tenants, collecting rent, and managing the entire property. Each service has a different price structure and responsibilities. If we talk about finding tenants only service, companies charge around 75% to complete 100% of one month's rent, along with added VAT. The services included in this tier include marketing the property, handling viewings, background checks of the tenants, and drafting tenancy agreements. Next comes the rent collection service, where the estate agents collect the rent on your behalf and even chase the arrears if needed. This service will cost landlords around 5%-10% of monthly rent, with additions that include tenant finding fees. For landlords who opt for complete managed services, the most viable option is an estate agent who charges between 10% and 15% of their monthly rent. The services include every aspect, ranging from property maintenance and inspection to handling the queries of tenants, checking local council compliance, and any emergencies.Location MattersLike the property prices, the fees of letting agents can also vary as per the location. For example, in London and other areas with high demand, agents charge higher to manage a full service and push to go ahead 15%, depending on how premium the the property is and what management is required there.Whereas, the landlords living in the small areas will the rates of agents to be more cost-effective. But, you need to remember that cheap rate does not mean a better service so it’s important to do the homework about your expectations before thinking about the cost and going for a cheap option. Are the Fees Regulated?As per the official Tenant Fees Act 2019, the letting agents were banned to take fees from tenants, however, they are allowed to charge landlords. Agents can set their own pricing as per tier-services provided so it becomes necessary to comapre the services with other agencies before hiring and signing the agreement. It is required for letting agents to be a part of a redress scheme like Property Ombudsman or the Property Redress Scheme. Majority of the estate agents are already a part of bodies like ARLA Propertymark that has a list of code to conducts to follow and encourage to have transparency. Can You Negotiate?Yes, letting agent fees are not set in stone. Especially in areas with plenty of competition, many agents are open to negotiation. If you have multiple properties or intend to be a long-term client, you may be able to secure a reduced rate.It’s always worth asking for a discount or requesting that certain extras be included in the base fee. But do so carefully, choosing an agent solely because they’re the cheapest may backfire if the service turns out to be poor.Is It Worth Paying for a Letting Agent?This ultimately comes down to your experience, availability, and how hands-on you want to be. If you’re a new landlord or live far from your rental property, a letting agent can provide peace of mind and ensure you remain compliant with ever-changing regulations.Full management may seem costly, but for landlords who value time and stress-free income, it can be well worth the expense. On the other hand, if you’re confident in handling tenant queries, legal paperwork, and maintenance issues yourself, a tenant-find only service might suffice.How Cribs Estates Can HelpAt Cribs Estates, we understand that every landlord has different needs. Whether you own one property or a growing portfolio, our letting services are designed to make the process smooth, compliant, and profitable. We offer transparent pricing with no hidden fees, and our experienced team handles everything from finding the right tenant to managing day-to-day maintenance and ensuring legal compliance.Located in the heart of London, we know the local rental market inside out. Our dedicated lettings experts provide personalised advice, regular updates, and access to trusted contractors, so you can rest easy knowing your property is in safe hands.

Who Pays Service Charge: Landlord or Tenant?

Whenever you need to rent a property in the UK as a tenant or a landlord, there is always a common question that circles in your head: who pays service charge landlord or tenant? There is an increase in the number of flats and properties on lease within the country, especially in major cities like London, so it is important to know the exact service charges that both parties will bear. Such charges keep changing, creating confusion in minds, so the best way is to define every term in the tenancy or the lease agreement. Here’s a brief about what exactly this is about:What Is a Service Charge?As the name suggests, landlords collect a fee to cover all the costs of maintaining the services of the property or the building. It includes all cleaning of staircases, and the maintenance of lifts, security, gardening, and other basic services, such as heating and lighting. For the flats, the service charges may also mean the insurance of building and management fees or other repair funds. However, it may need to be figured out by both parties as to who will be responsible for the charge: the landlord or the tenant? Does the Landlord or Tenant Pay?It all comes down to the type of tenancy agreement you have. When discussing leasehold property, the agents charge the landlords or leaseholders for the services. In many cases, the landlords pass these service costs to the tenants. As per the Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST), if the agreement already specifies that tenants are responsible for charges, they are legally bound to do so; however, if it’s not specified, landlords will have to cover all the service charges themselves. Is the Service Charge Included in the Rent?Oftentimes, we have seen the landlords add these service charges within the monthly rent so that tenants don’t feel they are giving anything extra other than rent. This approach is very common in single-let family properties, but landlords take service charges separately in larger living places like blocks or flats. Due to the nature of work in the building, the tenants get a breakdown of the invoices that reveals the charges. If you are a tenant, you should ask upfront whether the service charges are included in the rent. If they are not, you should get a clear idea of the expected cost and what it will cover. Understanding the Tenant's RightsUnder the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, tenants can request a written account summary and even inspect the documents to determine whether the charges are accurate. For example, if a tenant pays £ 130 in monthly charges, they are entitled to know where every penny is spent, whether on cleaning, gardening, maintenance, or lift repair. Disputes or trust issues can be avoided if landlords are transparent about these charges. What About Variable Service Charges?Variable service charges are another essential aspect, as they change yearly depending on costs. Tenants will pay higher charges with each passing year unless a fixed rate is decided at the start of the agreement. Landlords must highlight this aspect in the agreement to avoid misunderstandings, as not explaining it could raise questions in the tenant's mind. Disputes and MisunderstandingsWhen the tenants feel like they are not getting the quality of services against the monthly charges they pay, for example, if the lift of the building is frequently out of service or the cleaning is not regularly done, the tenants start to question the service charges and the work done against them. When such cases happen, the landlords or the estate agents working on their behalf act quickly to resolve the communication gap and any problems to avoid legal complaints or court proceedings. Who Pays Service Charge Landlord or Tenant? The Clear Answer!Coming back to our actual question, the answer is always the tenancy agreement. If the agreement states that it will be the tenants' responsibility, they must pay. If it’s the other way around, landlords must cover the expenses. It also highlights how important a well-written agreement is and how the expectations should be decided for both parties. Still, some landlords add service charges to the rent to simplify matters and keep the property appealing to new tenants. Others, with more detailed amenities, take a separate approach to service charges. How Cribs Estates Can Help?Cribs Estate specialises in understanding and acceptably managing the service charges to tenants and landlords. We offer a complete property management service that handles all the aspects for you, including tenant questions, communication, and handling the management work that needs to be done in the building, whilst informing both parties about tasks completed.The professional support we offer landlords will help them avoid mistakes whilst allowing them to focus on growing their portfolios. Whether new to the property rental market or already invested in properties, Cribs Estates is always ready to make their processes simple and stress-free whilst giving them peace of mind.

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