What is a rent repayment order?
Up to 12 months rent repaid to the tenant or the council.
3 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
A tenant or local authority can apply to the First-tier Tribunal for a rent repayment order where the landlord has committed a qualifying offence, including operating without a required licence, unlawful eviction, harassment or breach of a banning order.
Practical guidance
- Licensing offences are strict — good intentions rarely defeat the application.
- Awards commonly land in the tens of thousands for multi-occupancy properties.
- Fixing the licence position early is far cheaper than defending an application.
Related content
General information for UK landlords and letting agents, not legal advice. Rules differ across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland — check your local requirements or take advice before acting.