Rent Repayment Orders
Recover up to 12 months' rent
If your landlord failed to obtain a required HMO, selective, or additional licence, you may be entitled to recover up to 12 months of rent through a Rent Repayment Order. We assess eligibility, build the claim, and guide you through the process from start to finish.
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What we can do for you with a rent repayment order claim
We help tenants pursue rent repayment order claims where a landlord has committed certain housing offences, including operating a property without the required licence.
- Assessing eligibility for a rent repayment order claim
- Investigating licensing failures and housing offences
- Calculating recoverable rent and supporting evidence
- Representing tenants in tribunal proceedings
Rent repayment orders allow tenants to seek repayment of rent where landlords have committed certain housing offences, including operating a property without a required HMO, selective, or additional licence.
We focus on establishing eligibility, gathering the right evidence, and presenting a clear claim to maximise recovery. In some cases, tenants may be able to recover up to 12 months' rent.
View our Tenant services.
How we approach rent repayment order claims
Rent repayment orders can allow tenants to recover up to 12 months of rent where landlords have committed certain housing offences, including operating a licensable property without the required licence. The priority is to establish eligibility, gather evidence, and build the strongest possible claim.
Understanding your eligibility
We assess the property, tenancy, licensing requirements, and landlord conduct to establish whether a rent repayment order claim may be available.
Assessing the evidence
We review tenancy documents, rent payments, licensing records, and supporting evidence to assess the strength and potential value of the claim.
Taking the right next step
We prepare and pursue the application, respond to challenges where necessary, and work to secure the maximum recovery available under the legislation.
Key issues in rent repayment order claims
Rent repayment order claims are driven by licensing requirements, regulatory compliance, and the landlord’s conduct. The issue is whether a tenant is entitled to recover rent because the property was operated without the necessary legal permissions.
Licensing requirements
Claims commonly arise where a property required an HMO licence, selective licence, or additional licence but was operated without one.
Period of non-compliance
The length of time the property was unlicensed can significantly affect the level of rent that may be recoverable through a rent repayment order.
Evidence and documentation
Tenancy agreements, rent payment records, licensing information, and local authority evidence are often central to establishing the strength of the claim.
Amount that may be recovered
Tribunals can order repayment of up to 12 months’ rent, although the outcome will depend on the facts, evidence, and circumstances of the case.
Rent Repayment Orders FAQs
Common questions from tenants seeking repayment of rent where landlords have failed to comply with licensing and housing requirements.
What is a Rent Repayment Order?
A Rent Repayment Order allows tenants to recover rent from a landlord who has committed certain housing offences, including operating a property without a required licence.
Can I claim if my landlord did not have a HMO licence?
Possibly. If the property required a HMO licence and the landlord failed to obtain one, you may be entitled to seek repayment of up to 12 months of rent.
Does the property have to be a HMO?
Not always. Rent Repayment Orders can also arise where landlords fail to obtain selective licences or additional licences required by the local authority.
How much rent can be recovered?
In some cases tenants may be able to recover up to 12 months of rent, although the amount awarded will depend on the circumstances and evidence available.
What happens if I delay taking action?
Delay can make it harder to gather evidence and establish the relevant licensing position. Taking advice early helps protect your position and assess whether you may have a valid claim.
Clear advice and practical steps on rent repayment orders
If your landlord failed to obtain a required HMO, selective, or additional licence, you may be entitled to recover up to 12 months of rent through a Rent Repayment Order. We review the circumstances, assess eligibility, and explain your options clearly so you can pursue the claim with confidence.
Initial review
A solicitor reviews the tenancy, the licensing position, and the circumstances surrounding the property occupation.
Clear position
We explain whether you may qualify for a Rent Repayment Order and what level of recovery may be available.
Practical next steps
We set out how the claim can be progressed, what evidence may be needed, and how the application process works.
Ongoing support
If you instruct us, a solicitor manages the claim directly and guides the matter through to resolution.
There is no obligation. An early enquiry helps you understand whether you may be entitled to recover rent and what steps should be taken next.
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