How to Apply for a Rent Repayment Order in England

If you're renting in England and your landlord has broken specific housing laws, you may be entitled to get back up to 12 months of rent through a Rent Repayment Order (RRO). This simple guide explains the steps to apply, official forms required, and where to get reliable help.

What is a Rent Repayment Order?

A Rent Repayment Order (RRO) allows tenants or local councils to claim back rent if a landlord has committed certain offences. Common reasons include letting out a property without a licence when required, using unlawful eviction tactics, or breaching a banning order. In England, these rules are set out in the Housing and Planning Act 2016^[1].

Are You Eligible for a Rent Repayment Order?

To apply for an RRO, you should:

• Be (or have previously been) a tenant or licensee in the relevant property
• Show your landlord committed one of the offences listed in the official government guidance
• Apply within 12 months of the alleged offence

Landlord offences include failure to licence a property that needs a licence, unlawful eviction, or harassment.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Rent Repayment Order

Applying for an RRO is a formal process handled by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) in England. Here are the main steps:

1. Gather Evidence

• Collect documents such as tenancy agreements, rent payment records, correspondence, and evidence of the landlord’s offence.

For example, if your landlord failed to obtain a property licence, gather any letters from the local council highlighting the missing licence or communications from the landlord admitting the fact.

2. Complete Form RRO1: Application for a Rent Repayment Order

• Form Name: RRO1 – Application by tenant or local authority under section 41 of the Housing and Planning Act 2016
• When to Use: Use this form to start the process for claiming back rent due to landlord offences.
• Where to Get It: Download the form directly from the official gov.uk site: Rent Repayment Order application (Form RRO1)
• How to Use (Example): If you rented a flat for 10 months and later learned it was unlicensed, fill out this form with your tenancy details and evidence, and select the offence committed.

3. Submit Your Application to the Tribunal

• Send your completed RRO1 form to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) for your region, as instructed on the form.
• Pay the required fee (see fee information on the Property Chamber website or contact the tribunal for current amounts).

4. Attend the Tribunal Hearing

• After submission, both you and your landlord will be notified about the hearing date.
• Present your evidence and answer questions. The tribunal will decide if the landlord committed an offence and how much rent (if any) should be repaid.

5. Receiving Payment

• If successful, you’ll receive an official decision instructing your landlord to repay rent, up to 12 months’ worth, depending on the circumstances.

Throughout the process, keep records of all communication and copies of everything you send or receive.

Relevant Tenancy Legislation in England

The legal basis for Rent Repayment Orders is mainly found in the Housing and Planning Act 2016, Part 2. You may also find related landlord and tenant rules in the Housing Act 1988 and the Protection from Eviction Act 1977.

Frequently Asked Questions about Rent Repayment Orders

1. What is the deadline to apply for a Rent Repayment Order?
   Applications must be submitted within 12 months of the offence you’re claiming against.
2. Can joint tenants apply for an RRO?
   Yes, joint tenants can apply together, and the tribunal will decide how any awarded money is divided.
3. Do I have to pay a fee to apply?
   Yes, there is a tribunal fee. Check the latest fee on the Property Chamber’s website.
4. Can I apply if I’ve already moved out?
   Yes. Former tenants can still apply for an RRO if it’s within 12 months of the landlord’s offence.
5. What can I do if my landlord ignores the repayment order?
   If your landlord does not pay, you can ask a county court to enforce the order. The tribunal can provide details on this next step.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• Private renting: government guidance
• First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
• Tenancy Rights and Responsibilities in England
• Shelter England – Free advice for renters
• Contact your local council’s housing department for help with property licensing or landlord offences.

1. Housing and Planning Act 2016, Part 2 (legislation.gov.uk)
2. Official government guidance on Rent Repayment Orders
3. First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
4. Rent Repayment Order application form (RRO1)
5. Housing Act 1988 (legislation.gov.uk)
6. Protection from Eviction Act 1977 (legislation.gov.uk)