Housing Rights & Responsibilities Guide

Landlord's Duties

Your Agent/Landlord is responsible for...

Ensuring the property is "fit for human habitation" from move-in day and throughout your stay. It must meet basic standards of repair and safety.
Keeping the structure and exterior in tip-top shape, including drains and pipes.
Ensuring essential utilities like water, gas, electricity, and heating are in working order.
Providing a rent book if required by law, especially for weekly rent payments.
Handing over their full name and address – no secrets here!
Supplying you with copies of the current Gas Safety Certificate and electricity report.
Letting you peacefully enjoy your home, except in emergencies.
Entering the property at reasonable times for repairs or checks, giving you at least 24 hours' notice in writing.
Equipping you with the "How to rent" guide – your trusty guide to tenancy. See the ‘How to Rent’ guide here.
Providing you with an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for energy efficiency.
Ensuring any agents they employ are part of a complaints scheme, showcased proudly on their website.
Remembering: your tenancy agreement may assign repair responsibilities but the landlord can't dodge their legal duty to maintain the property to a liveable standard by law. Check out our Damp, Mould, and Disrepair Guide for more!

You are responsible for...

Acting "in a tenant-like manner," tackling small household chores like changing light bulbs and unblocking sinks.
Avoiding damage to the property; you and your guests are accountable for repairs.
Regularly checking smoke alarms and swapping in fresh batteries when needed.
Managing rubbish collection and ensuring bins are brought in promptly.
Securing the property when you're away – lock those doors and windows!
Being neighbourly – keep noise levels down, especially on weekends, party responsibly and inform neighbours of any parties.
Promptly reporting any needed repairs to your agent/landlord, preferably in writing.
Paying rent on time, every time.
Keeping a record of any issues that arise – it could come in handy later.

If you're facing eviction or harassment, know your rights:

Your agent/landlord must follow the law, including giving written notice and obtaining a court order for eviction.
Harassment or unlawful eviction is a serious matter. Reach out to the SU Advice Centre, Accommodation Department, local Council's Housing Advice Team, or Anti-Social Behaviour Team for support.
Stay informed and seek assistance if needed. Check out the Shelter website here for valuable resources on illegal eviction and harassment.

Remember, knowledge is power – arm yourself with information and stand up for your rights as a tenant!