Renting can be a breeze if you’ve got a good landlord: you pay rent, they put a roof over your head. Landlord responsibilities also include looking after the doors, windows, boiler, building structure, and countless other things that keep you warm and dry.
But don’t think you’re on easy street. You’ve got obligations too. And although tenant responsibilities vary depending on your tenancy agreement, the basic rules are the same. So, let’s walk through them…
Proving your right to rent
Your first responsibility is to prove your right to rent. It’s a must-do whether you’re living alone, in a shared house, or even lodging.
There’s vital info on proving your right to rent on the government website. Just show your landlord or letting agent your passport, certificate of naturalisation or citizenship certificate.
If you’re not a UK citizen, you’ll need a share code or your immigration certificates instead.
Pay your dues
Paying rent on time is one of the biggest tenant responsibilities. Keep falling behind and your landlord might try to evict you. Don’t forget your other bills, either. You’ll be responsible for paying council tax from the day your tenancy starts.
You might have to pay for your energy too (it depends on your tenancy agreement). You can usually choose your energy supplier if you do. Keep up with your payments or your credit score might take a hit. And this could make it trickier to buy your first home in the future.
Look after the place
Every landlord wants tenants who look after their property. Treat it badly and it could turn out badly for you, too.
So, make sure you get out your vacuum cleaner, sponges, dusters, and rubber gloves regularly. And try not to damage the furniture, sanitary ware, and fixtures and fittings.
Get rid of your rubbish responsibility. And make sure you know how to operate the boiler and other appliances or you could end up in hot water.
Do the odd jobs
It’s usually the landlord’s responsibility to do big, expensive maintenance jobs. But you’ll probably have to do the minor stuff yourself: cutting the lawn, replacing smoke alarm batteries and changing light bulbs.
Tenant responsibilities also include keeping your home well ventilated (if possible) to cut down condensation and damp. Don’t block flues or vents.
You can usually do a bit of internal decoration if you like. But it’s smart to check with your landlord first. And you’ll definitely need permission for bigger home improvements.
Be a good neighbour
Did you know that you could be evicted for anti-social behaviour? So, play nice with your neighbours, letting agent and landlord.
Other examples of anti-social behaviour include:
- being aggressive and rude
- vandalism and graffiti
- littering and dumping your rubbish
- doing illegal things
- using cars, vans, and motorbikes insensitively.
Try not to play loud music into the early hours of the morning either – no matter how much you like Oasis. You’ll look back in anger if you get evicted.
Don’t break your tenancy agreement
This one’s a no-brainer. Tenant responsibilities don’t come any simpler. So make sure you read your contract so you know what you can’t and can’t do. For example, some tenancy agreements say you can’t sublet or take in a lodger. Ask your landlord if you’re not sure.
Look out for rules about smoking and vaping too. And ask your landlord about pets. Now the Renters Rights Act has becomes law, they can’t unreasonably refuse. But maybe think twice before buying an Irish Wolfhound.
Report problems quickly
It’s the landlord’s responsibility to fix health and safety hazards. But you should point them out so they’re on the landlord’s (or letting agent’s) radar.
It’s a good idea to do this in writing. Then if the landlord takes too long, or ignores the problem, you can prove how long they’ve known about it. This could help your case if the local council eventually gets involved.
Build a good relationship with your landlord
Landlords have a lot to think about – from gas and electrical safety to pipes, drains, chimneys, guttering, and everything in between. So, try to be a help rather than an extra hassle. Doing the things above is a great place to start.
You’ll find more information about tenant responsibilities on the government website. But the main thing is simply to be a good tenant.
Look after the home and your landlord should look after you too.
This content was accurate when published on 21/05/26.
Looking for more ways to look after your home? Check out My Home Manager. You’ll find maintenance checklists and tips to save on your bills too – very handy if you’re saving for a deposit. In fact, you could buy your first pad with a deposit of just £10,000 with My First Mortgage. Terms and exclusions apply.