Rent and Credit > Your Tenancy Agreement: The 6 Clauses Every Renter Should Always Check

Your Tenancy Agreement: The 6 Clauses Every Renter Should Always Check

Wollit Team2 minute read · Updated 25th November 2025

When you’re excited to move into a new place, it’s easy to skim your tenancy agreement and sign without thinking twice. But this document sets the rules for your entire renting experience — how much you pay, what you’re responsible for and what your landlord can and can’t do. Understanding it properly can save you money, protect your rights and prevent surprises later on.

Whether you’re renting for the first time or renewing your tenancy, here are six important tenancy agreement clauses every UK renter should check before signing.

How and When Your Rent Can Increase

This is one of the most important parts of any tenancy agreement. It should clearly explain:

how often rent can be reviewed
how much notice the landlord must give
how the increase will be calculated

Some agreements allow rent increases once a year, while others link increases to inflation or local averages. Knowing this upfront helps you budget properly and avoid being caught off guard by a sudden jump in your monthly costs.

What Counts as “Damage” vs “Wear and Tear”

This clause matters because it can determine how much of your deposit you get back. Wear and tear covers natural, expected changes from everyday living — things like faded paint or slightly worn carpets. Damage is avoidable harm, like broken fixtures or stains.

Because the line between the two can be blurry, make sure you:

read the definition in your agreement
take photos and videos when you move in
keep evidence of anything that was already marked or damaged

A clear understanding now can prevent deposit disputes later.

Your Notice Period — and Your Landlord’s

Many renters only look at their own notice period, but it’s just as important to know how much notice the landlord must give you. This clause should cover:

how long you must give when leaving
how and when the landlord must notify you
what happens when the fixed term ends

Having clarity reduces stress and helps you avoid last-minute moves, which can be expensive and disruptive.

Repairs and Maintenance Responsibilities

Your tenancy agreement will outline who’s responsible for what. In most cases:

landlords handle structural issues, electrics, heating and plumbing
tenants cover minor tasks like replacing bulbs or keeping the property clean

If the agreement is unclear, ask for clarification in writing. You shouldn’t be paying for repairs that legally fall under the landlord’s duties.

Fees, Charges and Extra Costs

Most major fees were banned under the Tenant Fees Act 2019, but some charges are still allowed. Your tenancy agreement should list any potential costs, such as:

late payment charges
lost key or lock replacement fees
cleaning charges at the end of the tenancy
contract amendment costs

These fees aren’t always large, but they can add up. It’s better to know about them now than be surprised later.

Rules Around Decorating, Pets and Making Changes

These rules vary massively between landlords. Your agreement should tell you:

whether pets are allowed
if you’re permitted to paint or decorate
whether you can hang shelves or pictures
what you need to ask permission for

If any of these matter to you, check them closely before signing. You can sometimes request small changes to the agreement — and it’s much easier to negotiate before you move in.

Why This Matters for You as a Renter

Your tenancy agreement shapes everything from your monthly budget to your general peace of mind. Understanding the key clauses helps you stay in control, avoid unexpected costs and feel more confident in your home. And as part of staying organised, tools like Wollit’s Rent Reporting can help make sure your rent payments are recognised and reflected in your credit history. When you’re clear on your rights and confident in your payments, it’s much easier to stay on top of your tenancy and feel secure in your home.