How to Read a Tenancy Agreement: A Plain English Guide for Renters

Tenancy agreements are designed by solicitors, for landlords. Most renters sign them without fully understanding what they're agreeing to. Here's how to actually read one.

Start with the basics

The first section usually covers the fundamentals: who the landlord is, who the tenants are, what property is being let, and for how long. Check these details carefully — mistakes here (wrong name, wrong address) can cause problems later.

Understand the difference between fixed-term and periodic

A fixed-term tenancy runs for a set period — usually 6 or 12 months. During this time, neither you nor your landlord can usually end the tenancy without the other's agreement (unless a break clause is included).

A periodic tenancy rolls from month to month (or week to week). Either party can end it with the appropriate notice.

Under the Renters' Rights Act coming into force 1 May 2026, all new tenancies will be periodic from the start.

What the key sections actually mean

Rent: How much, when it's due, how to pay, and how and when it can increase. Watch for rent review clauses that give the landlord too much flexibility.

Deposit: How much, which scheme it will be protected in, and under what circumstances deductions can be made.

Tenant obligations: What you're required to do — pay bills, maintain the garden, not sublet, not make alterations. Some obligations are standard; others are unusual.

Landlord obligations: What your landlord is required to do — maintain the structure, ensure safety certificates are in place, give notice before entering. Check this section carefully, as some agreements try to limit what landlords are responsible for.

Ending the tenancy: How much notice you need to give, how much notice your landlord needs to give, and what happens at the end.

Red flags to watch for

• Clauses that require you to pay for repairs that are legally the landlord's responsibility
• Restrictions on having guests, working from home, or keeping pets that seem excessive
• Vague language around deposit deductions that gives the landlord too much discretion
• Any clause that says you waive your legal rights

When to get help

If you spot something that doesn't look right, contact Shelter (shelter.org.uk) or Citizens Advice. They provide free advice to renters.

Or, for a quick AI-powered plain English breakdown of your entire agreement, upload it to MyTenancyCheck — for £9.50.