Your responsibilities

Overview

When you sign your tenancy agreement, you agree to a number of conditions set out in the agreement.

A summary of these conditions can be found below.

For further information, please read your tenancy agreement.

Rent

You must pay your rent regularly as agreed when you signed your tenancy agreement.

If you are unable to pay your rent, you must contact us as soon as possible on 0300 123 6633 so that we can help.

If you do not pay your rent you will be in danger of losing your home.

For more advice on how we can help you please see help and support.

Repairs

You must take good care of your home, including the fixtures and fittings and any shared parts of the building or estate.

At the end of your tenancy, you must leave your home in the same state it was at the beginning of your tenancy (excluding fair wear and tear).

You are responsible for the cost of any repairing, redecorating or replacing of items damaged during your tenancy.

It's your responsibility to tell us if something needs repairing. If you don't, you could put yourself and others in danger.

Sometimes we may need to access your home to carry out repairs and servicing.

Although anyone calling to your home on our behalf will carry identification, you should always ask to see it before letting them in. If in doubt, contact us.

Minor repairs, such as replacing a sink plug or toilet seat, are your responsibility and must be paid for by you.

You are also expected to prevent faults from happening, by doing things such as preventing the pipes from bursting by keeping your home warm in the winter.

For more information see repairs and improvements.

Respect

You and your fellow tenants have the right to the quiet enjoyment of your home.

We are committed to making sure that all of our customers have the opportunity to enjoy their home. We will take every step possible to try to make sure that those causing a nuisance or disruption are made to stop.

You must not use your home for anything that may cause a nuisance to your neighbours, or for any illegal activity.

This includes:

running a business from your home (without asking our permission first)
loud music
violence or loud arguments

Pets

If you have pets in your home, you must make sure that they do not cause nuisance to your neighbours or anyone living in your area.

Generally, cats and dogs are allowed unless the property has a shared entrance or shared areas.

For more information please see keeping pets.

Gardens

You must keep your garden tidy and clear of rubbish.

If for any reason you are unable to keep your garden tidy, please let us know as we may be able to help.

What happens if you ignore your responsibilities

If you break the rules of your agreement you may risk losing your home.

We can give you a 'Notice of Seeking Possession', which asks the court to give us possession of your home.

We can also ask the court for an 'injunction', which is an order to make you carry out your responsibilities.

Private landlords

For information on private housing, landlord responsibilities, and more see private housing and landlords.