Tenants reminded of rights on rentals

People in rented accommodation could be entitled to claim back up to a year’s rent under rules which protect tenants’ against eviction by unscrupulous landlords.

A ban on excessive administrative and deposit fees came into force two years ago under the Tenants’ Fees Act.

However, that is one of a number of little-known measures in the legislation renters can turn to if they find themselves facing “no-fault” eviction.

The rules also mean tenants cannot be charged for cleaning costs without “good reason” and that deposits must be capped at five weeks’ rent.

With a rise in the number of people being evicted without reason, tenants are being reminded of their rights.

The landlord must have the correct licence from the local council in order to evict tenants without a reason.

Those who breach the regulations could be ordered to pay tenants up to a year’s rent in return.

Generation Rent, a national organisation which campaigns for the rights of tenants, said people were not aware of the illegality of these evictions.

Landlords and buy-to-let investors must apply to the local authority in order to obtain the licences.

Tenants can contact their local authority to find out if their landlord has the correct licence.

Under the law, they may be protected if their landlord does not hold the correct documentation.

They may also be entitled to compensation if the landlord attempts to evict them.

Renters are also being urged to check which licences their landlord has in place before paying a deposit.

If they encounter any issues with getting their money back following a “no-fault” eviction, they can contact their council or apply to the tribunal.

Dan Wilson Claw, of Generation Rent, said: “While it is welcome tenants won their money back in most cases, these scams shouldn’t be happening in the first place.

“If you’re in dispute, the letting agent redress system could help, but when most of the offenders are landlords, it is clear they need to be subject to this system, too.

“The case for a national register of landlords is clear – and the government must do more to raise awareness of tenants’ rights.”