Landlord and tenancy questions, answered

My landlord won't carry out repairs

Landlords are generally responsible for repairs to the structure and exterior of the property, and for keeping the installations for water, gas, electricity, heating and hot water in working order. Rented homes must also be fit for people to live in.

If something needs repairing, report it to your landlord in writing and keep a copy, along with photos and dates. This creates a clear record of when your landlord was told.

If your landlord doesn't respond, your local council may be able to help. Councils can inspect properties and take action against landlords where there are serious hazards.

Damp and mould

Damp and mould can affect your health and your belongings. Where it's caused by a problem with the building, such as a leak, rising damp, or faulty guttering, it's usually the landlord's responsibility to fix it.

Report it in writing, keep photos, and note any health effects. If your landlord doesn't act, you can contact your local council.

Getting my deposit back

If you rent on an assured shorthold tenancy, your landlord must protect your deposit in a government-approved scheme and give you certain information about it within a set time. If they don't, you may be able to claim compensation.

At the end of the tenancy, your landlord can only make deductions for things like rent arrears or damage beyond normal wear and tear. If you disagree with a deduction, each deposit scheme offers a free dispute resolution service.

For most tenancies, the deposit can't be more than five weeks' rent.

My landlord wants me to leave

A landlord must follow the correct legal process to end a tenancy and regain possession of a property. In most cases, this includes giving the right notice and, if you don't leave, getting a court order.

The rules on how landlords can end tenancies have changed significantly under recent reforms, so it's important to check what applies to your situation.

A landlord can't force you out by changing the locks, removing your belongings, or cutting off utilities. Evicting someone without following the legal process, or harassing a tenant to make them leave, can be a criminal offence.

My landlord wants to increase the rent

How and when your rent can be increased depends on your tenancy agreement and on the rules that apply to your type of tenancy. Your landlord generally can't increase the rent whenever they like.

If you think a rent increase is unfair, there may be ways to challenge it, so it's worth getting advice before you agree to it.

My landlord keeps coming into the property

As a tenant, you have the right to live in your home without unreasonable interference. Your landlord will usually need to give you reasonable notice, normally at least 24 hours, before visiting, except in a genuine emergency.

I'm a landlord. What are my main obligations?

Landlords have a number of legal obligations. These typically include protecting tenants' deposits, carrying out annual gas safety checks, arranging regular electrical safety inspections, providing an Energy Performance Certificate, checking tenants' right to rent, and keeping the property in good repair.

If you need to end a tenancy or recover unpaid rent, following the correct legal process matters. Getting it wrong can delay things or leave you facing a claim.

Important: urgent situations

If you've been locked out of your home, your belongings have been removed, or you're at risk of losing your home soon, don't rely on LegalBuddha. Contact your local council's housing team or a housing charity such as Shelter straight away.

If you've received court papers, check the deadlines on them carefully and get advice promptly.

Frequently asked questions