Tenants

In this section you will find information for tenants, including:

• what to think about and do at the start of a tenancy, including what you need to agree with your new landlord
• how to avoid problems by knowing your rights and responsibilities as a tenant
• what happens when you move out
• local events and useful contacts for tenants.
• want to make a Tenancy Tribunal application online and pay with your credit card? 
• You may wish to view Tenancy Tribunal orders online  as another tool in your decision making process before entering into a Tenancy agreement.

Need a quick overview?

For general information on what’s involved in being a tenant, download one of our handy publications:

What to do when you’re renting – a guide for tenants

This booklet answers many of the questions tenants ask us at the Department of Building and Housing, especially when they are not sure what the rules are, or if they need help to sort things out with the landlord. Find out more about the guide for tenants »

Tenancy information

This information sheet for tenants and landlords answers some common questions about tenancy and the law. Find out more about tenancy information »

Tenant and landlord rights and obligations

This information sheet describes what tenants and landlords can and can’t do. Find out more about tenant and landlord rights »

Renting and you – a guide to the law about renting

This booklet for tenants and landlords is designed for people who need to know the basics of what the law relating to tenancy means, especially when they’re renting for the first time. It is also available in 8 other languages. Find out more about the law and renting »

Tips for hassle-free flatting 

This information sheet for tenants provides some helpful hints and advice about tenancy agreements and payments, and your rights as a tenant or flatmate. Find out more about hassle-free flatting »

Need some help with a boarder issue, or a dispute between tenants?

The Department of Building and Housing doesn’t cover that side of renting and flatting. Citizens Advice Bureaux and student accommodation advisers can offer advice on flatmate relationships.

Dispute resolution toolkit

This toolkit offers landlords and tenants guidance on how to prevent, and how to sort out tenancy problems. View the Dispute Resolution toolkit »