Whether you are a first-time renter or you are moving from one rental property to another, understanding the rights and responsibilities that you have as a tenant is important. Knowing what the expectations are of both the landlord and you ensure that you have a smooth tenancy period and helps to avoid problems and misunderstandings later down the line.

As a tenant, you have the right to live in a safe and well-maintained property. This means your landlord is responsible for ensuring the home meets health and safety standards — including working heating, safe electrics, and a structurally sound building. You’re also entitled to privacy, meaning your landlord must give at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property, except in emergencies.

You also should have a written tenancy agreement. This will outline the terms of the tenancy and includes rent, responsibilities and the duration. The deposit must be protected by a Government approved deposit protection scheme. If you are renting a property through a professional lettings agent like this letting agents Bridgwater based company sykesmoore.co.uk/lettings/letting-agent they will be able to go through this with you.

As a tenant, you have a responsibility to take care of the property. You need to make sure you keep it clean and if there are issues that require maintenance, such as leaks or boiler problems, for example, they must be promptly reported to the landlord or the lettings agency. You also must be aware of and follow the rules that are outlined in the tenancy.