Different types of rented accommodation

Rented accommodation is available from three main providers: private landlords, local councils and housing associations.

Private landlords

Private landlords will normally rent their property at the market rate and their right to increase the rent depends on the type of tenancy. Make sure you get a tenancy agreement and read it carefully before committing to it.

A private landlord will normally ask for a deposit. You should make sure that the condition of the property and any items of furniture are recorded in an inventory and the tenancy agreement states:

how much the deposit is and who holds it
when money can be deducted from the deposit (for unpaid rent or damage to property)
when you will get the deposit back

Council and social housing

If you need rented accommodation, you may be eligible for council or housing association accommodation. Housing associations do not normally allocate their homes to people directly, only through the council's housing list. The council will allocate housing to those in greatest need on its list and property is often in great demand.

Your rights as a council tenant: the council tenant's charter (opens new window)

You have important rights as a secure council tenant. You also have important responsibilities. This booklet tells you about them. It also tells you other things you might want to know about council housing. It has been produced by the DCLG (then ODPM), the government department which has responsibility for most of the laws affecting council housing, and more covering tenants' rights.

This leaflet is a summary of housing law, and may not cover all circumstances. If you want to know more, your council's housing department will be able to help you. Your council may have produced its own leaflet or newsletter to let you know what is going on in your area.