Transparent Guide to Tenant Costs – Know Your Rights
Tenants should never be tricked into paying unlawful fees. Since the Tenant Fees Act came into force it has been illegal for letting agents and landlords to charge most tenancy related fees.
At Cooke & Co we believe renting a home should be clear, fair and transparent. Sadly, some tenants still tell us they have been asked to pay fees that are either unlawful or disguised in confusing small print.
We believe you deserve to know exactly what you can and cannot be charged before you agree to rent a property.
This page explains your rights and outlines the very limited circumstances where a tenant may legally have to pay certain costs.
What the Law Says
Under the Tenant Fees Act it is illegal for letting agents or landlords to charge tenants most fees associated with renting a property.
This law was introduced to protect tenants from hidden costs and unfair practices.
The law applies to most assured shorthold tenancies and licences to occupy residential property in England.
The Renters Rights legislation currently progressing through Parliament continues to strengthen tenant protections and transparency within the private rented sector.
Costs You CAN Legally Be Asked to Pay
The law allows only a very small number of charges.
These are known as permitted payments.
They include:
- Rent
- A refundable tenancy deposit (normally capped at five weeks rent)
- A refundable holding deposit to reserve a property (normally capped at one week's rent)
- Reasonable costs if a tenant requests changes to a tenancy agreement
- Late rent interest (limited by law)
- Replacement costs for lost keys or security devices
- Early termination of a tenancy if requested by the tenant
- Payments for utilities, council tax, television licence and communication services where applicable
Costs That Are Illegal
Letting agents and landlords are prohibited from charging many fees that used to be common.
These include:
- Viewing fees
- Tenant referencing fees
- Inventory fees
- Check in fees
- Check out fees
- Administration fees
- Tenancy renewal fees
- Credit check fees
- Guarantor referencing fees
- Fees to provide references at the end of a tenancy
If an agent or landlord attempts to charge these fees they may be breaking the law.
Don’t Be Misled
Unfortunately some tenants still encounter agents who attempt to disguise charges.
This may include:
- Confusing “processing fees” hidden within contracts
- Multiple small payments that resemble banned fees
- Unreasonable contractor charges
- Excessive administration costs
- Inflated late payment penalties
If something doesn’t seem right, ask questions before agreeing to anything.
Cooke & Co’s Approach
We believe renting a home should be straightforward.
Every cost is explained clearly before any payment is requested.
We do not hide fees in small print and we never surprise tenants with unexpected charges.
Our aim is simple.
We want you to enjoy your home and feel confident that you are being treated fairly.
Charges That May Apply During a Tenancy
In certain situations the law allows limited charges to be made. These only apply in specific circumstances.
Missed Contractor Appointment
If a contractor attends the property for a pre-arranged appointment and access is not provided, a call out charge may be payable.
This charge reflects the contractor’s lost time.
Typical cost: £50 including VAT.
Tenant Responsibility Repairs
Some maintenance issues are the tenant’s responsibility.
Examples include:
- Replacing light bulbs
- Resetting tripped electrics caused by appliances
- Resolving condensation caused by lifestyle factors
- Damage caused by tenant appliances
If a contractor attends and the issue is found to be the tenant’s responsibility, a call out charge may apply along with any repair costs.
If you are unsure, simply ask us before requesting a contractor.
Late Rent
If rent becomes more than seven days overdue, interest may be charged.
This is limited by law to three percent above the Bank of England base rate.
We always encourage tenants to speak to us early if financial difficulties arise so that solutions can be discussed.
Honesty and Communication
Problems can happen during any tenancy.
If you experience financial difficulty or a problem with the property, please contact us as soon as possible.
Early communication allows issues to be resolved quickly and fairly.
Why Transparency Matters
At Cooke & Co we believe tenants should always feel confident about the costs involved in renting a property.
No hidden charges.
No surprises.
Just clear information and straightforward advice.
Need Advice?
If you have any questions about renting a property, tenant rights, deposits or tenancy agreements, please contact our team.
We are always happy to explain things clearly before you commit to anything.
After all, finding a new home should be exciting – not confusing.
