register of rents
📖 What is register of rents? Meaning and definition
The 'Register of Rents under Assured Periodic Tenancies' is a formal document issued by the First-tier Tribunal – Property Chamber, specifically following a 'Section 14 Determination' under the Housing Act 1988. This document serves as a 'Notice of the Tribunal Decision' regarding the rent for an assured periodic tenancy. It records the new rent amount set by the Tribunal, along with the date from which this decision takes effect.
Beyond just the rent, the register includes various important details about the tenancy and the property. These typically cover the address of the premises, the names of the landlord and tenant, the date the assured tenancy began, and the length of the rental period (e.g., monthly). It also specifies whether any amount is included for services and clarifies what is excluded from the rent, such as water rates and council tax.
The register further details the allocation of liability for repairs, often referencing Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985, and notes if any furniture was provided by the landlord. A description of the premises is also included. This comprehensive record provides clarity and a definitive statement on the tenancy's terms as determined by the Tribunal, particularly concerning the rent.
📋 Requirements
- The decision must be made by the First-tier Tribunal – Property Chamber.
- The tenancy must be an assured periodic tenancy.
- The determination is made under Section 14 of the Housing Act 1988.
📝 Procedure
- The First-tier Tribunal – Property Chamber receives a case for rent determination.
- The Tribunal members review the case and make a decision on the rent.
- A 'Notice of the Tribunal Decision and Register of Rents' is issued.
- The register specifies the new rent, its effective date, and other tenancy details.
💡 Examples
- After a tenant applied to the Tribunal, a register of rents was issued, setting the new monthly rent for a four-bedroom detached house at £1250, effective from 17 September 2024.
- A landlord received a register of rents confirming that the rent for a five-bedroom detached house would be £900 per calendar month, starting 15 April 2024, with repairs allocated as per Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.
- The register of rents for an inner terrace cottage on three levels specified a monthly rent of £600, effective from 1 December 2022, and noted that no furniture was provided by the landlord.
📚 Legal basis
- Housing Act 1988 Section 14
- Landlord and Tenant Act 1985 Section 11
❓ Frequently asked questions
What is the purpose of a register of rents?
The register of rents officially records the rent amount and other key details for an assured periodic tenancy, as determined by the First-tier Tribunal – Property Chamber under Section 14 of the Housing Act 1988.
Who issues the register of rents?
The register of rents is issued by the First-tier Tribunal – Property Chamber, which is part of the UK's court and tribunal system.
What information is typically included in a register of rents?
It includes the new rent amount, the effective date of the decision, the property address, landlord and tenant details, tenancy commencement date, rental period, repair liabilities, and a description of the premises.
Does the register of rents apply to all types of tenancies?
Based on the provided cases, the register of rents specifically applies to 'Assured Periodic Tenancies' and is issued following a 'Section 14 Determination' under the Housing Act 1988.
What if I disagree with the rent amount on the register?
The register reflects a Tribunal decision. If you disagree with a Tribunal's decision, you may have grounds to appeal, but the specific process and deadlines are complex. You should seek advice from a qualified solicitor.
Are council tax and water rates included in the rent stated on the register?
The register typically specifies that the rent is 'excluding water rates and council tax', meaning these are usually separate costs for the tenant, unless explicitly stated otherwise in the 'amounts in paras 3' section for services.