Rent repayment order
A rent repayment order (RRO) is an order made by the First-tier Tribunal requiring a landlord to repay rent to a tenant or council, usually following an offence such as operating an unlicensed HMO or
4 min read · Updated 2 August 2026
Overview
A rent repayment order (RRO) is an order made by the First-tier Tribunal requiring a landlord to repay rent to a tenant or council, usually following an offence such as operating an unlicensed HMO or an illegal eviction.
When it applies
RROs typically follow offences including unlicensed letting, failure to comply with an improvement notice, or unlawful eviction.
How much can be recovered
Up to 12 months' rent can be repaid, with the tribunal considering the landlord's conduct and financial circumstances.
Who can apply
Both tenants and local authorities (where housing benefit or universal credit housing element was paid) can apply.
This wiki entry 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.