Tenant services and fees
check_circleGreat News: Enhanced Tenant Rights from 1 May 2026
The Renters' Rights Act brings significant improvements for tenants including the end of unfair no-fault evictions, stronger protections against rent increases, guaranteed pet rights, and better property standards. Bath Letting Agents is committed to respecting these rights and providing exceptional rental experiences.
Your Enhanced Tenant Rights
From 1 May 2026, you'll have stronger protections and greater security in your rental home
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End of No-Fault Evictions
Section 21 "no-fault" evictions are abolished. You can only be evicted if your landlord has a valid legal reason, giving you much greater security and stability in your home.
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12-Month Protected Period
You're protected from eviction for the first 12 months of your tenancy (unless you break the tenancy agreement). After that, landlords must give 4 months' notice if moving in or selling.
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Right to Have Pets
Landlords cannot unreasonably refuse your request to have a pet. This makes renting with furry family members much easier and fairer.
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Fairer Rent Increases
Rent can only be increased once per year, and you have the right to challenge unfair above-market increases at tribunal. No more surprise rent hikes to force you out.
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Deposit Protection
Your deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme within 30 days. You'll receive clear information about where it's held and how to get it back.
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Better Property Standards
Properties must meet higher safety and quality standards. Landlords face significant penalties for failing to maintain safe, decent homes with proper certificates.
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Protection from Discrimination
It's illegal for landlords to discriminate against you because you receive benefits or have children. Everyone deserves a fair chance at quality housing.
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Access to Redress
All landlords must be members of an ombudsman scheme from 2028, giving you free access to dispute resolution without going to court.
Why Rent Through Bath Letting Agents?
We go beyond legal requirements to provide exceptional rental experiences
Our Commitment
Quality Properties
Fully Compliant
Every property we manage meets or exceeds all legal requirements
- All safety certificates current and valid
- Gas, electrical, and EPC compliance guaranteed
- Properties inspected regularly
- Smoke and CO alarms tested and working
- Professional cleaning before move-in
- Clear inventory documentation
- Deposit protection automatically arranged
Responsive Service
Fast Support
Quick response times and professional maintenance support
- 24/7 emergency maintenance line
- Trusted contractor network
- Clear communication throughout tenancy
- Online portal for maintenance requests
- Regular property inspections
- Proactive issue resolution
- Dedicated property manager contact
Tenant-Focused Approach
Your Rights
We respect your rights and make renting straightforward
- Transparent fees and no hidden costs
- Pet-friendly properties available
- Fair rent increases (once per year max)
- Professional tenancy agreements
- Clear move-in/move-out process
- Deposit return within legal timeframes
- Respectful of your home and privacy
Before You Rent: Essential Checklist
Make sure your next rental meets these important standards
What to Check Before Signing
- Valid EPC (Energy Performance Certificate) with minimum E rating displayed
- Gas Safety Certificate dated within last 12 months (if property has gas)
- Electrical Safety Certificate (EICR) dated within last 5 years
- Working smoke alarms on every floor
- Working carbon monoxide alarm in rooms with fuel-burning appliances
- Written tenancy agreement provided before signing
- Clear information about deposit protection scheme
- Landlord or agent contact details for maintenance
- Inventory report documenting property condition
- Confirmation of Right to Rent check process
- Details of any property licensing (if applicable)
- Information about rent payment process and frequency
Tenant Questions Answered
Everything you need to know about renting in Bath
Can my landlord still evict me after 1 May 2026?
Yes, but only with a valid legal reason. Section 21 "no-fault" evictions are abolished, so landlords must use Section 8 grounds such as rent arrears, anti-social behaviour, wanting to sell the property, or moving in themselves. You'll receive adequate notice (typically 2-4 months depending on the reason) and can challenge unfair eviction attempts.
How much notice do I need to give to end my tenancy?
Under the new system, you can end your tenancy by giving 2 months' notice at any time (or less if your tenancy agreement states a shorter period). This gives you much more flexibility to move for work, family, or personal reasons.
Can my landlord refuse to let me have a pet?
From 1 May 2026, landlords cannot unreasonably refuse your request to have a pet. They can only refuse with a valid reason (such as the property being unsuitable or building restrictions). Most refusals can be challenged, making it much easier to rent with pets.
What if my landlord increases the rent unfairly?
Rent can only be increased once per year, and you have the right to challenge excessive above-market increases at the First-tier Tribunal. This protects you from rent hikes designed to force you out. Bath Letting Agents only implements fair, market-based rent increases.
Is my deposit protected?
Yes, by law your deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme (DPS, MyDeposits, or TDS) within 30 days of receipt. You'll receive prescribed information explaining where it's held, how much was deposited, and how to get it back at the end of your tenancy.
What happens if my landlord doesn't fix maintenance issues?
Landlords are legally required to maintain properties to a safe standard and address repairs promptly. If issues aren't resolved, you can report them to the local council who have strong enforcement powers, including fines up to £40,000. From 2028, you'll also have access to a free ombudsman service.
Can I be discriminated against for receiving benefits?
No. From 1 May 2026, it's illegal for landlords or agents to discriminate against tenants who receive benefits or have children. Everyone deserves equal access to quality housing regardless of income source or family status.
How do I know if a property is safe and legal to rent?
Use our checklist above. Every property must have valid safety certificates (gas, electrical, EPC), working alarms, and deposit protection. From late 2026, you'll be able to check the Private Rented Sector Database to verify landlord registration and compliance. Bath Letting Agents properties always exceed minimum standards.
What should I look for in a letting agent?
Choose agents who are transparent about fees, responsive to maintenance requests, respect your rights, and have good local reviews. Bath Letting Agents is committed to professional service, fast response times, and treating tenants with respect throughout their tenancy.
Are there any fees I have to pay as a tenant?
Tenant fees are already banned in England. You should only pay rent, a refundable deposit (maximum 5 weeks' rent), and a refundable holding deposit (maximum 1 week's rent). Be wary of any agent or landlord asking for additional fees.
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