Before reporting an issue to us, you should speak to your landlord first to resolve the issue directly. This may be quicker. See our guidance on dealing with problems in your rented property.
If you are not able to agree, you can report the issue to us.
Following the introduction of the Renter’s Rights Act, from May 1 2026, tenants in privately rented homes will have improved rights.
This will give you more protection and make it easier for the council to step in if housing standards are poor.
Changes to the Renters' Rights Act
These changes affect most private tenants with an assured shorthold tenancy (AST). Your rights will not change if you are a lodger living with a landlord.
If your landlord does not meet these standards, they may be breaking the Renter’s Rights Act.
No more ‘no fault’ evictions: Your landlord will need a legal reason to evict you with a section 8 notice. Previously, landlords could use a section 21 notice to evict tenants, which was known as ‘no fault’ eviction.
Advanced rent payment: Your landlord can only take or accept 1 month's rent in advance. Previously, there were no limits.
Rent increases: Your landlord can only put the rent up once a year and must give at least 2 months' notice. Previously, rent could be increased at any time.
Easier to leave: You will have a periodic tenancy which makes it easier to leave by giving notice.
Longer notice period: You will have to give 2 months' notice to end an assured periodic tenancy, unless a shorter notice is agreed in writing. Previously, you could often give only 1 month of notice to end a periodic AST.
Pets: You will have the right to ask for permission to keep a pet. Your landlord can only say no if they have a good reason. Previously, landlords could say no without giving a reason.
Ban on rental bidding: Landlords can no longer accept bids above advertised rent.
End to discrimination: It is now illegal to refuse tenants because they receive benefits or have children
Landlords will need to ensure they follow the new rules when renting out property. To learn more about this, visit our landlords' rights and responsibilities webpage.
Report an issue to the council
If you feel your rights are not being met, you can report the issue to the council.
Report a private housing issue
By completing this form below, your issue will be sent to our Private Rented Sector Enforcement Team who will review and investigate your case.
You should receive confirmation once you have submitted the form, and a full response within 5 working days.
Record evidence of the breach
It is important to record any evidence that proves a potential breach.
You should keep:
- letters, notices or messages that do not meet the standards above
- a record of inappropriate demands for rent or threats of eviction
- threatening or abusive emails or messages
- videos or photos of issues in your home that have not been fixed
- details of people who see your landlord act wrongfully, like family or friends
- a log of interactions with your landlord to show proof of repeated wrongdoing including how and when you contacted them
If you at risk of homelessness
If you are unable to resolve your housing issues using our homelessness prevention and housing advice webpages, our Housing Advice Service may be able to help you.
If you are homeless or due to be homeless in the next 56 days, the council may have a legal duty to prevent or relieve your homelessness.
If you have received a notice to leave your property and require advice and assistance, you may need to make a homeless application. Please contact the Housing Advice Service.