Information for tenants

In privately renting a property, it is important to know what your rights and responsibilities are in relation to your accommodation and where you can get advice if difficulties or problems arise.

Renting a house or flat creates a legal relationship between you and the landlord. This means that you both have a number of rights and certain responsibilities. As a tenant this includes paying the rent on time, not damaging furniture or causing a nuisance. 

For landlords it includes carrying out repairs for which they are responsible in a reasonable time and allowing the tenant privacy and peaceful enjoyment of the property. These are just a few examples, there are many more rights and responsibilities placed on both the landlord and tenant.

For more information please visit GOV.UK Private renting.

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Do I have to pay a deposit or a bond?

The landlord may ask for a deposit or bond (usually one months rent) to cover the cost of any damage to the property which may be caused during the tenancy. If everything is satisfactory at the end of the tenancy, then the bond must be returned.

It is important before you move in to go round the property with the landlord and create an inventory, this is to ensure you both agree the state of the property before you move in and will assist when asking for your bond back.

The Tenancy Deposit Scheme was put in place to protect tenants bonds and ensure they are only withheld if damage is done to the property beyond fair wear and tear. All landlords must put your bond into one of three schemes and inform you where your bond is being held. Any rent increase or new agreement will bring your existing tenancy within this remit.

Do I have to pay a month of rent in advance?

The landlord will almost always ask for one months rent in advance before you can move into the property. This is so you will always be in advance with your rent. If you are paying weekly they will usually ask for 4 weeks in advance.

It is important to always keep up-to-date with your rent as non payment can lead to the landlord serving you notice for eviction.

Tenant Passport Scheme

The Tenant Passport Scheme is a free to use tenant referencing service managed and delivered by West Lindsey District Council’s Home Choices Team.

Membership of The Tenant Passport Scheme allows someone to show that they are a suitable tenant quickly and easily,

Finding a property

Often, private landlords will use a letting agent to advertise their properties. Popular websites that are use are:

However some landlords do choose to advertise properties themselves and use local newspapers, signs outside the property, shop noticeboards, etc.

contact | Home Choices
Home choices

West Lindsey District Council
Guildhall
Marshall’s Yard
Gainsborough
DN21 2NA
United Kingdom