🏠 Tenant Rights in the UK (2025 Guide)

A clear and practical guide to understanding your rights as a renter in the UK today

Quick summary: This guide explains your rights as a tenant in 2025, including what your landlord must do, how your deposit is protected, and the new laws expected this year. Whether you’re renting for the first time or trying to understand your legal options, this is a good place to start.

Who this is for

If you are renting in the UK and feeling unsure about your rights or the way your landlord is treating you, this is for you. It is especially helpful if you are new to the country, or renting a property on your own for the first time.

This guide breaks down your protections clearly and walks you through recent updates to the law, so you can understand what you are entitled to and what your landlord is responsible for.

Your basic legal rights as a tenant

When you rent from a private landlord, you are not left to figure things out alone. The law gives you key protections to make sure your home is safe and your contract is fair.

• You have the right to a written tenancy agreement that sets out your rent, notice terms and other important details
• Your home must be safe to live in, with working heating, electrics and no health hazards like mould
• Repairs and maintenance are your landlord’s job, not yours
• Your deposit must be placed in a government-backed scheme within thirty days of payment
• If your landlord wants you to move out, they must give you proper notice and follow legal steps

If your landlord is trying to evict you without notice, or refusing to fix dangerous issues, you do have legal options and support available.

What is changing in 2025

The government is bringing forward a new law this year, called the Renters’ Rights Bill. It aims to rebalance the rental system and make life more secure for tenants.

• Landlords will no longer be able to evict tenants without giving a valid legal reason
• Tenants will be allowed to have pets unless there is a clear reason to say no, such as allergies or risk of damage
• Letting agents will no longer be able to run bidding wars on rental homes, making access more equal
• There will be tougher rules on repairs and more pressure on landlords who fail to meet their responsibilities

These changes are expected to improve conditions for renters across the country, especially for those who feel vulnerable or stuck in poor-quality homes.

Advice for first-time renters and newcomers to the UK

If this is your first time renting in the UK, here are some things to look out for to protect yourself:

• Always ask for a written contract before handing over any money
• Do not pay rent or deposit in cash unless you are given a receipt
• Read the official How to Rent guide from the UK government — it is free and written for tenants like you
• In some parts of the country, landlords must be licensed or registered. You can ask to see proof
• If something feels off, or if you are being pressured or mistreated, contact Shelter or Citizens Advice — they can help for free

Where to get help

• Shelter UK can support you if you are dealing with unsafe housing or facing eviction
• Citizens Advice offers free legal advice on your rights, rent increases and tenancy disputes
• Gov.uk Private Renting is the official government page with clear legal guidance
• Tenancy Deposit Schemes lets you check whether your deposit is properly protected

Frequently asked questions

Can a landlord evict me without giving a reason?
At the moment, yes — but this is set to change once the new law comes into effect. Going forward, landlords will need a valid legal reason to evict tenants.

What if my landlord ignores serious problems like mould or heating issues?
You can contact your local council. They have the power to inspect the property and take action if your landlord is not fulfilling their duties. Shelter can also help you take the right steps.

Is it legal to raise my rent without warning?
If you are in a fixed contract, the rent cannot be changed suddenly. Once your contract ends, any increase must follow a legal process and be considered reasonable.

Can I be evicted just because I have a pet?
Under the new rules, landlords will need a specific and reasonable reason to deny a pet. You cannot be evicted simply for owning one unless there is a clear risk or issue.

🧾 Want a version you can save?

A printable PDF version of this guide is coming soon. You will be able to download it, save it or share it with others who may need it.

Want help budgeting for rent too? Read our next guide: Renting Costs in the UK