What is the purpose of this guide?

This guide was issued by the government on 2nd October 2023, and according to their website it ‘is for people who are looking for a house or flat to rent’.

This includes people who rent a house privately through a letting agency or directly from a landlord under an assured short-hold tenancy. This may also apply to a shared property; however, rights may vary depending on circumstances.

This guide provides details on different stages of the process, including:

• Looking for your new home
• When you’ve found a place
• Living in your rented home
• At the end of the fixed period
• If things go wrong

Where can I find this guide?

A downloadable copy of the ‘how to rent’ guide can be found by clicking here.

What is included in the latest version of this guide?

The latest version of this rent guide introduces important changes for tenants at risk of losing their home. The existing Housing Possession Court Duty Scheme (HPCDS) has been replaced with the new Housing Loss Prevention Advice Service (HLPAS). The aim of the new HLPAS is to be made available to tenants facing eviction and is free of charge via legal aid services and support.

What if I fail to provide this guide to the tenant at the correct time?

The latest version of this guide must be given to the tenant before they move in or renew their tenancy. Otherwise, a Section 21 eviction notice—which landlords may use to take back their property without a reason—will not be effective. Tenants must therefore be provided with this guidance as soon as possible. Nonetheless, the guidelines’ requirements for the Section 8 notice-issuing procedure have not been altered.

If you have any queries or require support with landlord and tenant matters, please feel free to contact Lumine Solicitors on 020 3950 2246 or Contact Us HERE