What is a Rent Repayment Order?
A rent repayment order is an order requiring a landlord to repay a specified amount of rent to a tenant or a housing authority where certain offences have been committed. RROs can be used where offences relate to standards, licensing or unlawful eviction; official guidance explains the scope and process.[1]
When can tenants apply?
Typical situations where tenants in England might consider an RRO include the following examples.
- Illegal operation of an unlicensed House in Multiple Occupation (HMO) where the property should have been licensed.
- Illegal eviction or harassment resulting in unlawful repossession or loss of quiet enjoyment.
- Failure to comply with an improvement or prohibition notice issued by the local authority.
- Letting a property in breach of a banning order or other landlord prohibition.
How to apply and official forms
Applications for an RRO are dealt with by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) in most residential cases in England. You can apply as a tenant or a local authority may apply on your behalf; the tribunal provides application details and the form you must submit.[2] The legal framework that supports RROs and related offences is set out in national legislation and guidance for England and Wales, including provisions you should review before applying.[3]
- Application to the First‑tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) — tribunal application form (online or downloadable). When to use: a tenant who wants the tribunal to order repayment after a landlord has committed an offence. Example: if you paid rent during a period when your landlord did not have an HMO licence, you attach receipts and the local authority decision supporting the offence.
- Local authority enforcement notices (improvement or prohibition notices). When to use: these are issued by the council and may support an RRO application; include the notice as evidence when you apply.
Gathering evidence
Strong, organised evidence improves chances of success. Collect clear records that show the offence and the rent paid.
- Rent receipts and bank statements showing amounts and dates you paid rent.
- Photos, inspection reports or correspondence that show poor conditions, licensing problems or breaches.
- Copies of any improvement or prohibition notices issued by the local authority.
- A simple timeline showing dates of payments, landlord contact, enforcement actions and any eviction events.
FAQ
- Who can apply for a rent repayment order?
- A tenant or former tenant can apply; in some cases a local housing authority can also apply on behalf of tenants.
- How much can I get back?
- The tribunal decides the amount based on evidence and the period affected; there is no guaranteed sum and each case is assessed on its facts.
- Will applying risk retaliation from my landlord?
- Retaliation is unlawful in many circumstances; keep records and seek advice quickly if you face harassment or threats after raising a claim.
How-To
- Check whether you are eligible and identify the specific offence that applies to your case.
- Gather all evidence: receipts, bank statements, photos, authority notices and a clear timeline.
- Try resolving the issue with your landlord or notify the local authority so enforcement action may follow.
- Submit the tribunal application with all evidence and a short statement explaining what remedy you want.
- Attend any hearing or provide any further documents requested and, if successful, use enforcement routes to collect the repayment.
Help and Support / Resources
- Rent repayment orders guidance on GOV.UK
- First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) information on GOV.UK
- Housing Act 1988 on legislation.gov.uk
