Being a landlord in the UK isn’t just about finding tenants — it’s about making sure you’ve got the right paperwork in place. A clear, legally compliant residential tenancy agreement protects you, your property, and your tenants. But many landlords still find themselves asking the same questions that tenants are googling every day.

Here are the most common questions about tenancy agreements — and what you, as a landlord, need to know.

1. Who Provides the Tenancy Agreement?

It’s always the landlord’s responsibility to provide the tenancy agreement. Whether you self-manage or use an agent, you must give your tenants a written contract before they move in. Using a professional, up-to-date template ensures the agreement is valid and legally binding.

2. How Much Deposit Can I Ask For, and What Must I Do With It?

In most cases, you can request a deposit equal to up to 5 weeks’ rent (or 6 weeks if the annual rent is over £50,000). By law, the deposit must be placed in a government-backed deposit protection scheme within 30 days of receiving it. You must also provide the tenant with prescribed information about where their deposit is held.

3. Can I Increase the Rent During the Tenancy?

Yes, but only if your agreement includes a rent review clause or the tenant agrees to it. Otherwise, you can usually increase the rent at the end of the fixed term, by serving proper notice in line with the Housing Act 1988.

4. Who Is Responsible for Repairs?

As a landlord, you are legally obliged to keep the structure, exterior, heating, hot water, and sanitation in working order. Tenants are responsible for minor upkeep, like changing lightbulbs or keeping the property clean. A good tenancy agreement clearly sets out these responsibilities to prevent disputes.

5. What’s the Process for Ending a Tenancy?

This depends on whether the tenancy is still in its fixed term or has rolled into a periodic tenancy:

  • During the fixed term: You can only end it using a break clause (if one is included) or by mutual agreement.
  • After the fixed term: You must follow the correct legal procedure, usually by serving a Section 21 or Section 8 notice.

Without the right clauses, you may struggle to regain possession of your property.

6. Are Pets Allowed?

Since February 2021, the government’s Model Tenancy Agreement makes it easier for tenants to keep pets, removing blanket bans. Landlords can still refuse pets if there’s a valid reason, but you should put your pet policy in writing within the tenancy agreement.

Why Landlords Should Use a Professional Tenancy Agreement

As you can see, most of these questions boil down to one thing: having a clear, legally compliant tenancy agreement in place. Without it, you risk misunderstandings, disputes, or even legal action.

That’s why our UK Residential Tenancy Agreement Template is designed specifically for landlords who want:

✅ A legally sound contract that meets UK law
✅ Clear terms on deposits, repairs, pets, and rent reviews
✅ Protection if disputes arise
✅ A professional agreement without paying costly solicitor fees

Final Word for Landlords

Most problems in buy-to-let don’t come from difficult tenants — they come from weak contracts. By using the right tenancy agreement, you protect your property, your income, and your peace of mind.

Download your UK Residential Tenancy Agreement Template today and make managing your rental business simple, professional, and legally safe.

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Disclaimer:

This post is for general information only and is not a substitute for professional legal advice. Our templates are designed to save you time and money, but you are responsible for checking they suit your personal circumstances. If you're unsure, always double-check before use.

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