Tenant Guide to Rent, Deposits and Fees in England

By Hermens Property · 11 October 2026 · 3 min read

A person holding house keys and a wallet, illustrating the costs and practicalities of renting.

Before paying money for a private tenancy, make sure you know what each payment is for and keep a record. The rules below apply to most private tenancies in England; some arrangements, such as lodgers, can be different.

Before you pay

Ask for a written breakdown of the rent, tenancy deposit, any holding deposit and any other proposed charge. The Tenant Fees Act limits what most landlords and agents can require from tenants. Do not pay an unexplained fee: ask for the legal basis and a receipt, and check the current GOV.UK guide to fees.

From 1 May 2026, the Renters’ Rights Act also limits advance rent before a tenancy starts. Check the current official rules if you are asked to pay a large amount upfront. Avoid sending money until you have verified who you are paying and that the property and agent are genuine.

Check your deposit is protected

For a tenancy deposit that must be protected, your landlord must use an authorised tenancy deposit protection scheme and give you the required information within 30 days of receiving it. The scheme safeguards the deposit and provides a dispute process at the end of the tenancy.

Keep the deposit amount, scheme name, certificate or reference, prescribed information and payment proof together. If you did not receive these details, ask the landlord or agent in writing and check with the authorised schemes directly. Do not rely only on a verbal assurance.

The deposit cap depends on the rent and the rules that apply to your tenancy. Check the current GOV.UK tenancy deposit guidance rather than relying on an old article or another tenant’s paperwork.

When the tenancy ends

Ask for a proposed deposit statement with evidence for each deduction. Compare it with the signed inventory and check-in photos. Fair wear and tear is different from damage; a landlord should not charge you for making an item or room better than it was at the start.

If you disagree, explain the specific item and provide your evidence to the landlord or agent. If the deposit is held in a scheme, use that scheme’s free dispute resolution process and follow its time limits. Keep paying rent while a dispute is ongoing unless you have received qualified advice saying otherwise.

Keep a simple record

Save the tenancy agreement, inventory, bank or card receipts, meter readings, messages about repairs and any deposit correspondence. A clear timeline often makes it easier to resolve a disagreement.