Tenant Fees Act

The Tenant Fees Act 2019 is the main law in England that bans most upfront and “admin” charges for private renters. It says that landlords and letting agents can only ask tenants or guarantors to pay certain permitted payments, such as rent, a capped tenancy deposit, a capped holding deposit, limited default fees (for late rent or lost keys where properly documented), and specific, clearly defined charges like early termination in set circumstances. Any other fee connected to granting, renewing or continuing a tenancy is generally unlawful.

The Tenant Fees Act 2019 applies to most assured shorthold tenancies, licences to occupy and student lets in the private rented sector in England. Landlords or agents who demand banned fees can face civil penalties and, for repeated offences, criminal sanctions. A landlord who has taken a prohibited payment may also be blocked from regaining possession until it is repaid.

The Renters’ Rights Act 2025 keeps the Tenant Fees Act framework but tightens it, including updated statutory guidance for enforcement authorities and new rules such as a one month cap on rent in advance for most private tenancies. Together these laws aim to stop hidden charges and make the true cost of renting more transparent for tenants.