Simple Renting renting and letting, made simple

The landlord register opens on 15 December 2026, one region at a time. Check when you need to register.

Renting in England, step by step

The key rules at each stage of renting, from finding a place to getting your deposit back.

Updated . Applies to England.

1 May 2026Tenancies became rolling, with no fixed end date
No Section 21"No-fault" evictions have ended
1 monthThe most rent a landlord can ask for upfront
Once a yearThe most often your rent can go up
1

Searching

  • Fees: landlords and agents can't charge you most fees, such as for viewings, references or admin. The main allowed payments are rent, a refundable deposit and a refundable holding deposit of no more than one week's rent.
  • Rent in advance: a landlord can't ask for more than one month's rent upfront.
  • No bidding wars: landlords and agents must advertise a set rent and can't invite or accept offers above it.
  • No blanket bans: it's illegal to refuse to rent to you just because you have children or receive benefits.
2

Moving in

  • Deposit: usually capped at five weeks' rent. Your landlord must protect it in a government-approved scheme within 30 days and tell you which one.
  • Inventory: check it carefully and take dated photos of any damage. This is your best protection when you move out.
  • Paperwork: your landlord must give you written information about your tenancy and your rights, plus the gas safety record (if there's gas), the electrical safety report and the energy performance certificate (EPC).
  • Set-up: take meter readings on day one and set up energy, broadband, council tax and a TV licence if you need one.
3

Living there

  • Rent increases: no more than once a year, using a formal notice with at least two months' warning. If you think the new rent is above the market rate, you can challenge it at a tribunal.
  • Repairs: report problems in writing and keep a copy. Your landlord is responsible for the structure, heating, hot water, and gas and electrical safety.
  • Pets: you can ask to keep a pet, and your landlord can only refuse if they have a good reason.
4

Moving out

  • Notice: you can usually end a tenancy by giving two months' notice in writing.
  • Deposit: clean, take photos, and return all keys. If your landlord wants to make deductions you disagree with, the deposit scheme offers a free dispute service.

In a dispute or facing eviction? Get personal advice from Citizens Advice or Shelter. Our guides are general information, not legal advice.

Sources: Shelter: Renters' Rights Act changes for private renters; GOV.UK: Guide to the Renters' Rights Act; GOV.UK: Tenancy deposit protection.