Private housing information in easy read

Information in easy read. Find out what the rules are when you rent privately and what happens if your rent goes up.

Block of flats

Information for private renters

Go to our private renters section to find information about:

  • what you're allowed to do and what your landlord must do
  • how to keep your home safe
  • how to keep up with rent payments
  • how to make your home warm and energy efficient

 

A tenancy agreement file with a pen

Learn about your rights as a private renter

Go to our tenancy advice tenancy section to find out:

  • what you are allowed to do and what your landlord must do
  • how to make sure your deposit is kept safe
  • what to do if your landlord treats you badly or unfairly
  • what happens if your landlord wants to put your rent up
  • what happens if your landlord asks you to leave your home

Renters' Rights Act 2026

Some changes were made to the Renters' Rights Act in May 2026.

Read information about the changes to the Renters' Rights Act in easy read.

Easy Read private renting guides 

The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government have published three Easy Read guides about private renting to support tenants with learning disabilities.  

These guides are structured according to a renter’s journey through a tenancy. They tell you what to do when starting a tenancy, during a tenancy, and when you or your landlord want to end a tenancy. 

You can find the guides on the GOV.UK website or by using the links below:

Person holding money in front of a house with a calendar date reminding them that rent is due.

Paying your rent

Your landlord or letting agent must tell you when and how your rent should be paid.

If you pay your rent weekly, they must provide you with a rent book.

There are rules on how much landlords can increase to your rent.

Laptop with a screen that says 'click'.

Go to the Shelter website to find out more

Find out about the rules on rent increases.

If your rent includes utilities like gas, electric or water, you could be asked to pay more

Find out about rent increases if your rent includes utility bills.