The tenant guide

Understanding your tenancy

Most room rentals are either an assured shorthold tenancy or a licence to occupy. Either way, make sure you know: the rent and what it includes, the length of any fixed term, the notice you must give to leave, and who is responsible for repairs. Get everything in writing.

Deposits

• A tenancy deposit is capped at five weeks' rent where the annual rent is under £50,000.
• A holding deposit, which reserves a room while checks are done, is capped at one week's rent.
• For an assured shorthold tenancy, your deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days, and you must be told which one.
• Take dated photos of the room's condition when you move in — they settle most deposit disputes later.

Bills and council tax

Check whether the rent includes gas, electricity, water, broadband and council tax. If bills are split, agree how and when in advance. Full-time students are generally exempt from council tax; if everyone in the house is a student, the household may pay none at all.

Your rights as a tenant

• The property must be safe and in good repair, with a valid gas safety certificate and EPC.
• Your landlord must give reasonable notice — usually 24 hours — before entering your room.
• You cannot be evicted without the correct legal process and notice.
• You cannot be charged banned fees such as referencing or admin charges.

Being a good housemate

Shared houses work best when expectations are clear. Agree early on cleaning, guests, noise and shared shopping. Small courtesies — washing up promptly, keeping to quiet hours, being fair about the fridge — go a long way, and a house where people get on is a nicer place to come home to.