What are my responsibilities as a tenant?
Each private contract can be different so you will need to check your contract as this is an agreement between you and your landlord. Your home is your place but you should keep it in ‘reasonable order’; this means things like cleaning and tidying your home regularly and taking out your rubbish in time for collection.
Your home could be next to other people and it is important to respect their right to privacy and quiet enjoyment of their home too. If you think you may be noisy for any reason, for instance if you are planning on having several visitors over in the evening, it is respectful to let your neighbours know. Most people are more reasonable if they are told in advance.
Can I keep pets?
Many private rentals do not allow pets. Check your contract.
What if something is broken?
If your landlord has provided furniture or equipment like a TV and it is broken, call your landlord and ask for it to be removed and replaced. If you have broken something and it can’t be repaired you should let your landlord know.
How can I feel safe at home?
Make sure you lock up your home at night and when you go out, closing windows and doors. Don’t put your valuables on display, or leave them within arms reach of open windows -especially if you are on the ground level. You can put up net curtains or blinds so that people can’t see into your property in the daytime and always close your curtains or blinds at night.
Look after your house keys and don’t keep them with anything that has your address on. Don’t leave them lying around or give them to anyone you don’t completely trust.
Be careful about who you give your address to or invite into your home. How well do you know them? Are they trustworthy? If someone knocks on your door and you don’t know them, ask them to show you their identification.
If someone is in your home, you don’t want them to be there and they refuse to leave, you can call the Police. No one has the right to intimidate or threaten you in your own home.
If I think I have a problem, with my gas or water for instance, who do I call?
If you suspect a gas leak you should call 0800 111 999. It is better to be safe and call. If you have a water problem, such as your water not flowing when you turn on your tap, call your local water supplier.This is who you receive your bills from.
How do I set up and pay my household bills?
Water, Gas and Electric - Check your tenancy contract as some of your bills might be covered by your rent payments. If you need to set up your own bills call the water company/gas/electric provider. If you are not sure who they are your landlord may be able to help or see under useful numbers. See www.water-guide.co.uk for more information.
TV licence - Everyone who owns and watches a television has to have a TV licence. Call 0844 800 6790 or visit www.tvlicensing.co.uk for more details.
Council Tax –You will need to pay council tax as a private tenant. If you are on full benefits, your council tax should be paid by your local authority. Contact your local council to find out if you qualify. If you have to pay your own council tax it is usually a monthly payment which will be based on the type of home you live in called a ‘band’. Contact your local council to find out which band your home is in and how much you need to pay. If you live in a shared house or flat, the cost is split between you and the other tenants.
How do I manage my bills?
If you are on benefits or earning a low income you may be able to make small regular payments to your provider. Ask them what is available when you call them to set up your bills. If you are going to be late paying any of your bills for any reason, keep in contact with your provider to avoid charges they may put on for late payment.
