What are my responsibilities as a tenant?

It is important to be aware of your responsibilities as a tenant.

As a tenant you have the follow responsibilities:

• Take good care of the property – for example, by turning off the water at the mains if you’re away in cold weather, keeping it clean, and so on
• Carry out any maintenance you have agreed to as part of the tenancy – for example, unblocking drains, or clearing gutters
• Pay the agreed rent, even if repairs are needed or you’re in dispute with your landlord
• Pay other charges as agreed with the landlord - these may include council tax or utility bills
• Repair or pay for any damage caused by you, your family or friends
• Only sublet a property if the tenancy agreement, or your landlord allows it
• Always ask your landlord about having pets
• Be neighbourly, minimising noise or other disturbances. For instance, tell your neighbours if you are going to have a gathering or carrying out works involving drilling, and so on
• Dispose of your household rubbish in the appropriate manner, keeping refuse areas clear and clean
• Inform your agent or landlord if you intend to be away for any length of time from the property, usually more than 14 days to prevent your landlord believing you may have abandoned the property
• Properly heat and ventilate your property to prevent the build up of damp and condensation.

You can find out more about your responsibilities as a tenant on the following websites:

• Shelter
• Gov.uk

If you want more advice about your responsibilities, you can contact us using the form on the right hand sidebar.