Tenants

Our Tenants rights and responsibilities

Homemaker Properties understands that property rentals is a two way street and although we are in the business of being an intermediary, we find it is useful to have a set of ground rules. You have BOTH rights and responsibilities if you’re a tenant in privately rented property and it helps make everyones life easier if both parties make a commitment to understand these things. Here is our guide for tenants to understand their role in the rental experience.

Your rights

As a tenant, you have the right to:

  • Live in a property that’s safe and in a good state of repair
  • Have your deposit/bond protected
  • Know who your landlord is
  • Live in the property undisturbed
  • See an Energy Performance Certificate for the property
  • Be protected from unfair eviction
  • Have a written agreement if you have a fixed-term tenancy of more than 3 years.
    If you have a tenancy agreement, it should be fair and comply with the law.

If you don’t know who your landlord is, ask us and we will let you know.

When you start a new tenancy

When you start a new tenancy, Homemaker Properties will give you the relevant paperwork to keep for your information.

Your responsibilities

You must give your landlord access to the property to inspect it or carry out repairs. Your landlord has to give you at least 24 hours’ notice and visit at a reasonable time of day, unless it’s an emergency and they need immediate access.

You must also:

  • Look after the property and take good care of the fixtures and fittings.
  • Pay the agreed rent, even if repairs are needed or you’re in dispute with your landlord.
  • Pay your household bills, eg Council Tax or utility bills
  • Repair or pay for any damage caused by you, your family or friends
  • Only sublet a property if the tenancy agreement or your landlord allows it

Remember!

Your landlord has the right to take legal action to evict you if you don’t meet your responsibilities as agreed in the contract.

Don’t Worry!

It rarely comes to this and we are here to ensure that everyone is happy and amicable.

Any questions?

Please get in touch with us if you have any questions and we’ll be happy to help.