Changing a Tenant's Name on Rental Agreements in England

If you rent a property in England, you might find yourself needing to change the name or names on your tenancy agreement—perhaps due to a new housemate, a relationship change, or wanting to remove someone who's moved out. It's important to follow the right legal steps, as your tenancy agreement governs important factors like who is responsible for rent and obligations under the law.

Understanding Tenancy Agreements and Name Changes

Your tenancy agreement is a legal contract between you and your landlord. In England, most renters have an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST), which is covered by the Housing Act 1988.^[1] Changing the names listed on the agreement is not just a simple edit—you need your landlord’s cooperation, and certain legal forms or processes may be required.

Common Reasons for Changing Names on a Tenancy

• Add a new tenant (e.g., a partner or friend moving in)
• Remove a tenant (e.g., after a breakup or flatmate moving out)
• Update a name after marriage or deed poll

Each situation has slightly different steps and may affect your rights or responsibilities as a renter.

How to Change a Tenant's Name on a Tenancy Agreement

The process is different depending on whether you're adding, removing, or updating a name:

1. Adding or Removing a Tenant

• Seek landlord/letting agent agreement. Landlords are not obliged to agree but cannot unreasonably refuse in some situations – negotiate in writing where possible.
• End and create a new tenancy (surrender and regrant): Usually, the existing agreement ends ("surrendered"), and a new one is drafted with the correct tenants listed. This protects all parties but may mean new credit/reference checks and costs (such as admin fees or deposits). Ask for a written agreement, not just a note.
  • There is no specific government form for this – the landlord provides a new written tenancy agreement.
• Assigning the tenancy: In rare cases, your tenancy may allow for "assignment" (transferring your tenancy to another person). This requires landlord permission and usually happens if you want someone to take over your tenancy.
  • Deed of Assignment: A legal document that transfers the tenancy. This must be agreed and signed by all: current tenant(s), new tenant(s), and the landlord. There's no standard government-issued Deed of Assignment, but you can ask your landlord or seek independent legal advice. Templates are available via local councils or at GOV.UK – Private renting: changes to your tenancy.

2. Changing a Tenant's Name Due to Marriage or Deed Poll

• Notify your landlord or agent in writing with your updated official name and proof (e.g., marriage certificate or deed poll document).
• Request a new or updated tenancy agreement showing the correct details.
• There are no official forms required for this update, but written confirmation is essential.

Key Forms and Official Guidance

• Deed of Assignment
  • Used if your tenancy allows another person to take over. Requires landlord agreement.
  • GOV.UK Tenancy Agreement Changes – Ending or transferring a tenancy
• Written surrender of tenancy
  • This is not a government form, but you and your landlord can mutually agree in writing to end your tenancy before signing a new one. Ask for written confirmation signed by both parties. For more, see GOV.UK – Tenancy agreements.

There is no universal government form for changing names on an existing AST, but these steps are backed by law and official guidance.

Which Tribunal Handles Tenancy Disputes?

In England, if you and your landlord cannot agree or if a dispute arises, you can apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber). This body resolves residential tenancy disputes, including some disagreements about tenancy terms or assignments.^[2]

Action Steps for Renters

• Check your current tenancy agreement for assignment or change clauses.
• Contact your landlord in writing to request a change—state clearly what change is needed and why.
• Collect all parties’ agreement in writing before any new person moves in or moves out.
• Sign a new agreement if required, ensuring all names are listed and correct.
• Seek legal advice if your landlord refuses or asks for unfair fees or conditions.

Making changes properly helps protect your rights and prevents disputes.

FAQs: Changing Names on a Tenancy in England

1. Can my landlord refuse to change the names on a tenancy agreement?
   In most cases, the landlord's consent is required. They may refuse, but must act reasonably—especially if the request is fair and doesn't disrupt the tenancy. If you think your landlord is being unfair, contact Shelter England or your local council for advice.
2. Do I need to pay a fee to update names on the tenancy?
   Some landlords or agents may charge a reasonable administration fee, but excessive or illegal fees are not allowed under the Tenant Fees Act 2019.^[3]
3. What happens if I change my name after marriage or by deed poll?
   Send proof of your new name to your landlord in writing. They should update their records and may draw up a new tenancy agreement, but it should not affect your rights under the original tenancy.
4. If someone moves out, can I just remove their name?
   No, the agreement must be updated with landlord permission. Usually, you’ll end the old agreement and sign a new one with the correct names. Never just cross out a name or remove someone without legal agreement.
5. Do changes to the tenancy affect my deposit?
   When the tenancy agreement changes (ends or restarts), your deposit should be properly released and protected again under a government-approved scheme. Check details at GOV.UK – Tenancy deposit protection.

Conclusion: What Renters Should Remember

• Always get landlord permission and written confirmation for any name changes on your tenancy agreement in England.
• There’s no official government form, but a new tenancy agreement or deed of assignment may be needed.
• Seek help from official sources or advice services if issues arise with your landlord or agent.

This process protects your rights as a renter and helps you avoid future disputes.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Shelter England Advice Line – Free expert advice for renters
• GOV.UK: Tenancy Agreements – Official government guidance
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) – For formal tenancy disputes
• Citizens Advice – Tenancy Agreements
• Your local council's housing department for direct support

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1. Housing Act 1988
2. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
3. Tenant Fees Act 2019

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