Category: Renting
Discriminatory Eviction: Common Examples and Your Rights as a Tenant
What is Discriminatory Eviction? Discriminatory eviction is when a landlord tries to evict a tenant because of a personal characteristic that is protected by law. In the UK, this is illegal under the Equality Act 2010, Section 4, which sets out clear rules to prevent unfair treatment in housing. The law protects people from discrimination…
Landlord Referrals Explained: What Tenants and Landlords Need to Know
What Are Landlord Referrals? A landlord referral is a type of reference provided by a tenant’s previous or current landlord. It’s a written or sometimes verbal statement about the tenant’s conduct during their tenancy. Landlord referrals are commonly requested by prospective landlords or letting agents when someone applies to rent a new property. The main…
Can My Landlord Evict Me for Complaining or Requesting Repairs?
Understanding Retaliatory Eviction Retaliatory eviction happens when a landlord tries to evict a tenant simply because the tenant has complained about problems in their home or has asked for repairs to be carried out. This type of eviction is often called “revenge eviction”, and it is considered both unfair and illegal in many situations. In…
Building Safety and Structural Issues
Understanding Building Safety and Structural Issues Building safety and structural issues are central to ensuring that rental properties are safe, secure, and suitable for people to live in. In the context of renting in the UK, these terms refer to the physical condition of a property – its walls, roof, floors, foundations, and overall stability…
Retaliatory Eviction Explained: Tenant Rights and Legal Protections
Introduction to Retaliatory Eviction Retaliatory eviction happens when a landlord tries to evict a tenant because the tenant has complained about the condition of the property or has exercised their legal rights. For example, if you report a serious repair issue to your landlord or the local council, and your landlord then serves you an…
Electrical Safety in UK Rental Properties: Landlord and Tenant Rights
Introduction to Electrical Safety in Rental Properties Electrical safety is a crucial aspect of living in a rental property. Faulty wiring or unsafe electrical installations can lead to electric shocks, injuries, or even fires, putting tenants’ lives and belongings at risk. For this reason, maintaining high standards of electrical safety isn’t just good practice –…
What to Expect at an Eviction Hearing and How to Prepare Your Case
What is an Eviction Hearing? An eviction hearing is a formal meeting in court where a judge or tribunal decides whether a landlord can legally evict a tenant from their home. In the UK, this hearing is a crucial step in the eviction process, giving both the landlord and the tenant a chance to present…
Fire Safety Rules for UK Renters: Landlord and Tenant Duties Explained
Introduction to Fire Safety in Rental Homes Fire safety is a vital concern in any home, but it becomes especially important in rental properties where multiple people may live under one roof, and responsibilities are shared between landlords and tenants. Every year, fires in residential properties cause serious injuries, loss of life, and significant damage.…
Preparing for Your Eviction Hearing
Understanding Your Eviction Hearing Attending an eviction hearing is a crucial step in the eviction process, giving both tenants and landlords the chance to present their case before a judge. An eviction hearing typically takes place after a landlord has served notice and started legal proceedings to regain possession of a property. The hearing is…
How to Legally Leave a Tenancy Early in the UK: Your Rights Explained
Understanding Your Tenancy Agreement A fixed-term tenancy is a rental agreement that lasts for a set period, usually six or twelve months. During this time, both you and your landlord are generally committed to honouring the terms of the contract. This means you’re expected to pay rent and look after the property until the end…