Tenant Fees and Charges in England: What you can (and can’t) be charged
At Taylor Ross, we believe renting a home should be simple, transparent, and fair. Whether you’re moving into your first flat or relocating across the country, it’s important to understand exactly what fees you’re responsible for.
When you rent with us, you’ll be supported every step of the way. We take the time to explain everything clearly, from your tenancy agreement to any costs involved, so you’re never left in the dark. Tenants deserve to feel confident and comfortable throughout their rental journey, and we’re here to make that happen. Whether it’s your first time renting or you’ve done it many times before, we work to make the process smooth, respectful, and positive.
There are no hidden fees, no unexpected charges, and no confusing small print. Just honest, open communication and a professional service you can rely on.
The Tenant Fees Act 2019 sets clear rules on what landlords and letting agents can charge. Most fees have been banned, and only a few are allowed by law.
Here is a clear breakdown of what you can expect.
What fees are allowed?
There are only a few payments that you can legally be asked to make as a tenant:
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Holding Deposit (per tenancy) |
One week’s rent. This is to reserve a property. Please Note: This will be withheld if any relevant person (including any guarantor/s) withdraw from the tenancy, fail a Right-to-Rent check, provide materially significant false or misleading information, or fail to sign their tenancy agreement (and / or Deed of Guarantee) within 15 calendar days (or other Deadline for Agreement as mutually agreed in writing). |
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Security Deposit (per tenancy. Rent under £50,000 per year) |
Five weeks’ rent. This covers damages or defaults on the part of the tenant during the tenancy. |
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Security Deposit (per tenancy. Rent of £50,000 or over per year) |
Six weeks’ rent. This covers damages or defaults on the part of the tenant during the tenancy. |
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Unpaid Rent |
Interest at 3% above the Bank of England Base Rate from Rent Due Date until paid in order to pursue non-payment of rent. Please Note: This will not be levied until the rent is more than 14 days in arrears. |
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Lost Key(s) or other Security Device(s) |
Tenants are liable to the actual cost of replacing any lost key(s) or other security device(s). If the loss results in locks needing to be changed, the actual costs of a locksmith, new lock and replacement keys for the tenant, landlord any other persons requiring keys will be charged to the tenant. If extra costs are incurred there will be a charge of £15 per hour (inc. VAT) for the time taken replacing lost key(s) or other security device(s). |
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Variation of Contract (Tenant’s Request) |
£50 (inc. VAT) per agreed variation. To cover the costs associated with taking landlord’s instructions as well as the preparation and execution of new legal documents. |
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Change of Sharer (Tenant’s Request) |
£50 (inc. VAT) per replacement tenant or any reasonable costs incurred if higher.
To cover the costs associated with taking landlord’s instructions, new tenant referencing and Right-to-Rent checks, deposit registration as well as the preparation and execution of new legal documents. |
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Early Termination (Tenant’s Request) |
Should the tenant wish to leave their contract early, they shall be liable to the landlord’s costs in re-letting the property as well as all rent due under the tenancy until the start date of the replacement tenancy. These costs will be no more than the maximum amount of rent outstanding on the tenancy. |
If renting the property as a company let, the Tenant Fees Act 2019 does not apply and a list of associated fees can be found here in our Company Let Charges.
What fees are banned?
You cannot be charged for any of the following:
- Referencing or credit checks – Landlords and letting agents must cover the cost of any checks carried out to assess your suitability as a tenant.
- Inventory or check-in/check-out reports – You cannot be charged for the preparation of an inventory or for attending a check-in or check-out inspection.
- Administration or renewal fees – Fees for drawing up contracts, renewing a tenancy, or other admin tasks are prohibited. Please note, changes to the tenancy are excluded and are explained above.
- Cleaning services – You can only be charged for cleaning if you leave the property in a condition worse than when you moved in (beyond fair wear and tear). This would typically be deducted from your deposit, not charged separately during the tenancy.
- Gardening or maintenance – You should not be charged for general upkeep or maintenance as that is the landlord’s responsibility. However, if you neglect your garden and cause damage, a charge may apply – again, typically from your deposit. Weeding, cleaning your patio or mowing your lawn would be things as tenants you would be expected to do.
- Insurance or third-party services – You cannot be required to pay for services or insurance products chosen by the landlord or agent.
- Guarantor-related costs – You cannot be asked to cover the costs of setting up or verifying a guarantor.
These fees are no longer legal. If you are asked to pay any of these, you have the right to refuse and report the issue.
What to do if you are charged an unlawful fee?
Landlords or agents who charge banned fees can be fined up to £5,000 for a first offence, and up to £30,000 for repeat breaches.
If you think you have been charged unfairly, you can:
- Ask for a refund directly
- Contact your local council’s Trading Standards team
- Get advice from Citizens Advice or Shelter
- Apply to the First-tier Tribunal for a ruling
Renting with confidence at Taylor Ross
Renting should feel straightforward and stress-free, and we’re here to make sure it does. If you have any questions about fees, your tenancy, or how we work, we’re always happy to help.
Get in touch with our friendly team today – we’re here to guide you every step of the way and if you are unsure about a fee or just want clear, honest guidance on renting, get in touch with our team.
