Information for tenants

Tenants’ information guide

Whether you are looking for or moving in to a new HMO, our guide for tenants is here to help.

It has useful information on:

• pre-tenancy checks
• you and your landlord's rights and responsibilities
• unlawful eviction
• personal safety tips, and
• how to end your tenancy.

You can use this guide to help avoid common pitfalls, learn your rights, and enjoy your home.

Read our information guide for HMO tenants

Check your HMO is licensed

If you live in an HMO, you can check if the property is licensed and that it complies with the legislation.

All HMOs must be licensed to make sure they:

• are safe
• meets all the regulations
• are good quality
• have suitable facilities for the number of people living there, and
• are managed well.

Your landlord should also give you an information pack.

Check if the property you live in is licensed (link opens in new window). 

Tenants' responsibilities

Tenants also have responsibilities to make sure the landlord can carry out their duties. Tenants must: 

• allow the landlord or manager access, at all reasonable times, to any occupied room
• provide them with any relevant information
• comply with fire safety, litter storage and disposal arrangements in the property
• not stop the landlord or manager in performing their duties
• take reasonable care to avoid damaging anything which the landlord is responsible for keeping in good repair. 

You can report an HMO or landlord to [email protected] if you believe a property is not licensed or suspect they may not comply with the legislation.