The Tenants’ Charter: Could It Go National?

As tenant rights and rental market regulations continue to evolve, local councils are introducing measures that they say will improve transparency and fairness in the private rental sector. One such initiative is North Hertfordshire’s Tenants’ Charter, designed to establish clear guidelines for tenants, landlords and the council itself. The charter sets expectations on property standards, tenancy agreements and dispute resolution, aiming to create a more secure and well-maintained rental market.

With growing discussions around rental reform, could a national Tenants’ Charter become a reality? Here’s what the North Herts scheme entails and how it might influence rental policies across the UK.

What Is the Tenants’ Charter?

The North Herts Tenants’ Charter outlines the responsibilities of tenants, landlords, and the local council in ensuring rental properties are safe, habitable, and well-maintained. It serves as a framework for mutual accountability, offering guidance on key aspects of tenancy management.

Key Elements of the Charter

For tenants:

• Consider their finances before renting (eg. can they afford the rent and heating costs).

• Ensure the letting agent is registered with a redress scheme.

• Check that the property has a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).

• Pay rent and bills on time.

• Carry out basic maintenance tasks, such as changing light bulbs and clearing drains.

• Report disrepair or hazards to the landlord promptly and in writing.

For landlords:

• Verify tenants’ Right to Rent status before the tenancy starts.

• Provide tenants with:

  •  A written tenancy agreement.

  • An inventory of the property’s condition.

  • Energy and safety certificates (EPC, gas safety, electrical inspection reports).

  • Details of the deposit protection scheme used.

• Respond to repair requests within 14 days (or sooner if urgent).

• Give tenants at least 24 hours’ notice before accessing the property for inspections.

For the local council:

• Provide guidance and information for both tenants and landlords.

• Assist tenants in raising complaints against landlords when needed.

• Carry out housing disrepair assessments for unsafe homes.

• Enforce housing health and safety standards where landlords fail to comply.

This structured approach aims to create proactive cooperation between all parties, ensuring rental homes remain safe, warm and legally compliant.

Could a National Tenants’ Charter Be Introduced?

With increasing political and public focus on tenant rights, a nationwide Tenants’ Charter is a possibility. The UK government has already proposed significant reforms through the Renters’ Rights Bill, which includes:

• Abolishing Section 21 no-fault evictions.

• Improving minimum housing standards.

• Strengthening enforcement against rogue landlords.

A national Tenants’ Charter could complement these reforms by setting out clear, legally backed expectations for landlords and tenants across the country. Local councils could enforce compliance, much like North Hertfordshire does, ensuring consistency in rental standards nationwide.

What Would a National Charter Mean for Landlords?

If the charter were adopted at a national level, landlords could expect:

• Clearer regulations on their responsibilities.

• More structured dispute resolution for tenant complaints.

• Greater accountability for tenants, ensuring they uphold their own responsibilities.

• Stricter penalties for non-compliance, particularly for maintenance delays.

• Potential rent controls if affordability becomes a key national concern.

Conclusion

If the government expands rental reforms, a UK-wide Tenants’ Charter could be the next step in encouraging transparency, tenant security and property management standards. The question remains: will other councils follow North Herts’ lead, or will the government push for a national framework?

To ensure you keep your rental property in good repair, talk to us about our property management solution. Part of the offer is a professional maintenance service, keeping your tenants and the regulators happy. Contact us today to find out more.