As housing challenges continue to rise, many tenants are facing issues that could lead to issues with their landlords. Examples of this could be rent increases, issues with property disrepair to unjust evictions. One recent and concerning discovery is that not all landlords are properly registered! Particularly those renting out Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs), which legally require a licence.
If your landlord isn’t correctly registered, you have options—not just to protect yourself but to potentially reclaim rent you’ve paid.
What is a rent repayment order?
A Rent Repayment Order (RRO) allows tenants to claim back up to 12 months’ rent if their landlord has committed specific housing offences, such as:
- Renting out a property without the required HMO licence
- Illegal eviction or harassment
- Using or threatening violence to gain entry to the property
- Failing to comply with improvement or prohibition orders
- Breach of a banning order
RROs are typically made against a landlord. However, if the property is owned by a company and the landlord is simply a director of that company, an RRO cannot be issued against them.
If your landlord is operating illegally, you have every right to report them to your local council, which has the power to help you apply for an RRO.
Can I apply for a rent repayment order?
Yes. You can apply if:
- The offence occurred while you lived at the property
- It happened within 12 months after you moved out
If you received universal credit or housing benefit, any reclaimed rent must be proportionally split between you and the local council. The maximum amount you can claim is 12 months’ rent.
For cases of illegal eviction or harassment.
A tribunal has discretion to award rent paid over the 12 months leading up to the offence. If rent covered utilities, such as gas, electricity, water, or internet, these amounts may be deducted from the total reimbursement.
How do I apply?
To start the process, you or your local council can submit an application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber).
You must complete the Form RRO1. Application fees apply and additional costs may arise if a hearing is scheduled. However, if your application is successful, you can recover the fees. Just be sure to request reimbursement in both the application form and at the hearing.
Know your rights, and act
If your landlord is not correctly licensed, report them to your Local Council or seek guidance from specialist advisors who can support your claim.
