Landlord obligations under consumer protection law
Letting a property is treated as a consumer transaction, meaning advertising, fees and tenancy terms must meet consumer protection standards.
5 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
Letting a property is treated as a consumer transaction, meaning advertising, fees and tenancy terms must meet consumer protection standards.
Advertising accuracy
Listings must not omit material information, such as known licensing requirements or significant property defects.
Unfair contract terms
Clauses that impose disproportionate penalties on tenants or exclude statutory rights can be unenforceable even if signed.
Transparency on costs
All mandatory costs, including rent and permitted deposits, should be clear in any advertisement or listing.
Getting your agreement reviewed
Have your standard tenancy agreement periodically reviewed against current consumer protection and tenant fee rules.
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This guide is 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.