FAQs

If you are renting, or thinking about renting, from a private landlord, this section explains what you need to know.

What is a private landlord?

A private landlord is an individual who owns a property and rents it out to tenants.

These homes are known as privately rented properties.

How is private renting different?

Private rented homes are different from council or housing association homes:

• they are often single houses or flats
• some houses may be split into flats
• rents are usually higher
• rent is often paid monthly

If you claim housing benefit, you may need to pay extra to cover the full rent.

Landlords may also ask for:

• a deposit (usually one month’s rent)
• rent in advance
• a reference fee

Important:
Any deposit must be protected in a government-approved Tenancy Deposit Scheme.

What type of tenancy will you have?

Most private tenants have an assured shorthold tenancy.

• these usually last for six months
• the tenancy can be renewed or ended after this period

If your landlord wants you to leave, they must give at least two months’ notice.
This is done using a Section 21 notice.

If you want to leave, you must usually give one month’s notice.

Who do you contact about problems?

Some landlords use letting or managing agents.

• you may need to contact the agent, or
• you may deal directly with the landlord

Agents may charge for services, such as preparing agreements or writing letters.

What to look for when viewing a property

View as many properties as possible before deciding.

Outside the property:

• check the roof is in good condition
• make sure drains and gutters are clear
• look for any unsafe or damaged woodwork

Gas and electricity:

• check there are enough plug sockets
• check the heating works and suits your needs
• check if a cooker is provided and working
• ask to see a current gas and electrical safety certificate

Plumbing:

• check taps and water pressure
• test thermostats
• flush the toilet and check for leaks
• run hot water to check the temperature

Safety:

• make sure you can exit easily in an emergency
• check windows open and close properly
• check doors close and lock securely

Do you need a tenancy agreement?

You should always ask for a written tenancy agreement.

This will explain your responsibilities and the landlord’s responsibilities.

Landlords do not have to provide a written agreement, but it is strongly recommended.

How often will you pay rent?

Your agreement will explain:

• how much rent you pay
• whether you pay weekly or monthly

If you pay weekly, your landlord must give you a rent book.

If you do not have a written agreement, keep a record of payments yourself.

Can you get help with rent?

If you are on a low income or claiming benefits, you may be able to get housing benefit.

In the private sector, this is called Local Housing Allowance.

The amount you receive depends on:

• your household size
• the local allowance rate

It may not cover the full rent.

What if something goes wrong?

If your landlord is not dealing with important repairs, we may be able to help.

How to complain about housing conditions

We can inspect privately rented homes if conditions are poor.

If needed, we can take action to make sure the landlord carries out repairs.

Complain about housing conditions

Other help and advice

You can also get advice from:

• Midlands Landlord Accreditation Scheme (MLAS)
  Recognises landlords who provide safe, good-quality homes
  Email: contact@MLAS-online.co.uk

• Homestamp
  Offers advice for tenants and lodgers
  Their guide “Read This First” is useful for new tenants