A basic Private Rented Sector definition is: a property owned by a landlord and leased to a tenant. As a tenant you would either deal directly with an individual landlord, or alternatively with a management company or estate agency caring for the property on behalf of the landlord.
You have certain rights and responsibilities if you’re a tenant in privately rented property.
As a tenant, you have the right to:
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:
Your landlord has the right to take legal action to evict you if you do not meet your responsibilities.
If you receive Housing Benefit or the housing part of Universal Credit, you may be able to apply for a one-off payment to help with your rent or housing costs.
If you can not afford to keep your home safe, warm or weatherproof, you may be eligible for a Home Improvement Assistance loan.
If you have a tenancy agreement, it should be fair and comply with the law.
If you do not know who your landlord is, write to the person or company you pay rent to. Your landlord can be fined if they do not give you this information within 21 days.
When you start a new assured or short assured tenancy, your landlord must give you:
If your landlord lives outside the UK
Contact HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) if your landlord lives outside the UK and you pay £100 or more a week in rent directly to them.
You may have to deduct tax from your rent under HMRC’s ‘non-resident landlord scheme’.
Leeds City Council can support you if you have landlord problems, they can help get repairs made and ensure your home is safe. They also provide free advice about evictions and harassment. For more information visit Help for Private Tenants
Your student union is the best place to find advice about renting as a student.
If you are a landlord or want to become a landlord you will find information and guidance including licensing and help to rent out your property on Leeds City Councils website.