Tenant Rights & Responsibilities
Renting a home should feel fair, safe and straightforward. This page explains what you can expect from us as your landlord, and what we expect from you as a tenant. It’s a simple, plain-English guide based on UK renting rules and how we work at Robinson & Spensley.
If anything here isn’t clear or you want to chat something through, just give us a call.
Your Rights as a Tenant
The right to a safe, well-maintained home
You’re entitled to live in a property that’s structurally sound, secure and in good working order.
We’re responsible for things like:
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Heating and hot water systems
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Plumbing, drains and sinks
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Electrics, wiring and sockets
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Roofing, walls, windows and doors
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Gas appliances and ventilation
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Alarms, safety checks and certificates
If something breaks or becomes unsafe, let us know as soon as you spot it.
Your deposit protected in an approved scheme
Your deposit is protected in a government-approved Deposit Protection Scheme (DPS).
You’ll receive full details and prescribed information when your tenancy starts.
At the end of your tenancy, your deposit will be returned promptly as long as:
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The property is cleaned
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There’s no damage beyond fair wear and tear
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All keys are returned
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Rent is up to date
If there’s ever a disagreement, the DPS offers free, independent dispute resolution.
Privacy and reasonable notice
We’ll always give you at least 24 hours’ notice before entering the property for inspections, maintenance or viewings (unless there’s an emergency).
Clear, written tenancy agreement
You’ll receive an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) outlining your terms, rent, notice periods and responsibilities. We’ll go through anything you’re unsure about.
The right to repairs
You can report repairs by phone or email, and we’ll deal with them as quickly as reasonably possible. Urgent issues will always be prioritised.
Fair treatment
You can expect clear communication, fair decision-making and no unreasonable charges, conditions or hidden fees.
Your Responsibilities as a Tenant
Looking after the property day-to-day
You’re responsible for everyday upkeep, including:
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Keeping the property clean and tidy
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Ventilating rooms to prevent condensation
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Changing lightbulbs
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Keeping gardens (if included) in reasonable order
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Reporting issues early so they don’t get worse
Reporting repairs promptly
Small issues can become big ones if left, so please tell us as soon as something isn’t right.
We’ll arrange repairs, but we rely on you to let us know.
Paying rent on time
Rent is due on the 1st of each month.
If you’re going to be late, please let us know as early as possible.
Regular late payments may result in interest or late fees.
Paying your bills
Unless stated otherwise in your tenancy agreement, you’re responsible for:
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Gas
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Electricity
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Water
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Council tax
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Broadband / TV licence
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Any services or subscriptions you choose
We’ll tell you who the current suppliers are when you move in.
Decorating, shelves and changes
You’re welcome to make the place feel like home, but:
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Please ask before redecorating
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Avoid bold or strong colours
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You can hang pictures and shelves carefully
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Please ask if you want to replace curtains with blinds
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Don’t make changes that can’t be reversed
If you’re unsure, just ask — we’re reasonable.
Smoking and pets
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Non-smokers preferred
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Pets considered on application
Following your tenancy agreement
Your AST sets out the practical rules for living in the home — things like notice periods, garden care, inspections and general expectations. Please read it carefully so everything runs smoothly.
Ending your tenancy
When you want to move out, you must give one month’s written notice (unless your agreement states otherwise).
Before leaving:
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Clean the property thoroughly
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Return all keys
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Remove all belongings and rubbish
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Leave the home in the condition you found it (fair wear and tear accepted)
We’ll complete a final inspection and then arrange your deposit return through the DPS.
Need more help?
If you’ve got a question or want to discuss something about your tenancy, we’re here to help.