Verbal Tenancy Agreements: Your Rights in Northern Ireland

If you’re renting in Northern Ireland and your agreement was made with a handshake or a conversation rather than signed on paper, you might wonder what rights you have as a tenant. Verbal tenancy agreements are recognised in law, but it’s important to know your protections—especially if issues arise around rent, eviction, or repairs. Understanding your rights can help you resolve problems and avoid disputes.

What is a verbal tenancy agreement?

A verbal tenancy agreement is when you and your landlord agree the terms of your rental—such as rent amount, notice period, and responsibilities—without putting anything in writing. While written agreements are recommended, under Northern Ireland’s Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006^[1], a verbal agreement is still legally binding and most standard rights and responsibilities still apply.

Key facts about verbal agreements

• You have legal rights as a renter, even if nothing is written down.
• Your landlord must provide you with a statement of tenancy terms in writing within 28 days of your tenancy starting.
• You and your landlord can use verbal evidence (e.g., text messages, witnesses) if there’s a disagreement.

Your rights and protections as a tenant in Northern Ireland

Even without a written contract, you have standard legal protections and obligations as set out in Northern Ireland’s tenancy laws. Here’s what you need to know:

Your basic rights include:

• Staying in your home: You cannot be evicted without proper notice and legal process.
• Rent increases: Your landlord must follow correct procedures for increasing rent, giving you at least 28 days’ notice in writing.
• Repairs and maintenance: Your landlord is responsible for most major repairs (such as heating or the structure of the property).
• Protection of your deposit: Deposits must be protected in an approved tenancy deposit scheme.

Learn more about your core protections on the official nidirect Private Tenancy guidance.

You must also:

• Pay rent on time
• Take care of the property
• Follow reasonable terms agreed with the landlord (for example, rules on pets or guests, where discussed)

What documentation is the landlord legally required to provide?

Under the law, even with a verbal agreement, your landlord must give you:

• A Statement of Tenancy Terms (within 28 days of your tenancy starting) outlining main details, such as rent amount, payment dates, notice periods, and landlord contact information.
• A Rent Book—a document to record each rent payment. You can request a copy if you have not received one.

Relevant Forms for Tenants

• Statement of Tenancy Terms
  • Name/Number: Not a published numbered form, but landlords are required to provide one by law.
  • When to use: Request this from your landlord if you have a verbal agreement and have not received one within 28 days. For example, if you moved into a new flat based on an agreed weekly rent, ask your landlord in writing for your Statement of Tenancy Terms.
  • View an official sample Statement of Tenancy Terms
• Rent Book
  • Name/Number: No official numbered form but all tenants must be given a rent book.
  • When to use: Use this to record your payments each time you pay rent. If you’re not given one, ask your landlord or get advice from your local council.
  • View an official sample rent book

What if there’s a disagreement or you need help?

If you believe your landlord isn’t following the rules—for example, not making repairs or increasing your rent unfairly—you can take action:

• Contact your local council’s Environmental Health department: For urgent repairs or health/safety issues.
• Use written evidence: Keep records of all communications, texts, emails, or receipts.
• Apply to the relevant tribunal: In Northern Ireland, the Private Rented Housing Panel (PRHP) handles disputes about repairs, rent increases, and certain rights.

Relevant Legislation for Reference

• Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006 – main framework for private renting
• Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022 – strengthens tenant rights, including deposit and notice requirements

If you want to read more about your rights as a private tenant, visit nidirect: Your rights and responsibilities as a tenant.

FAQ: Verbal Tenancy Agreements in Northern Ireland

1. Can I be evicted without a written agreement?
   A landlord must still follow the legal process for eviction, including providing proper notice in writing, even if there’s only a verbal agreement.
2. How do I prove my tenancy if there’s nothing in writing?
   You can use evidence like rent receipts, bank statements, photos of the property, messages between you and your landlord, or witness statements.
3. What should I do if my landlord refuses to give a rent book or statement?
   Contact your local council or get advice from a tenant support service. They can remind your landlord of their legal obligations and help resolve the issue.
4. Can my landlord increase my rent without warning?
   No. Your landlord must give at least 28 days’ written notice, even with a verbal tenancy, unless you both agree otherwise.
5. Where can I get help with a dispute?
   The Private Rented Housing Panel deals with disputes over repairs, rent, and some tenant rights. You can learn more or apply via the official PRHP website.

Key Takeaways for Tenants

• A verbal tenancy agreement still gives you legal rights in Northern Ireland.
• Your landlord must give written tenancy details like a rent book and statement of terms.
• If a dispute arises, keep evidence and seek advice from official services as soon as possible.

Need Help? Resources for Renters

• nidirect Private Renting Hub – government information and guidance
• Private Rented Housing Panel (PRHP) – official tribunal for private tenant disputes
• Your local council Environmental Health department – for complaints about property standards or landlord obligations
• Free advice from Housing Rights: housingrights.org.uk or call 028 9024 5640

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1. Private Tenancies (Northern Ireland) Order 2006: Full legislation text
2. Private Tenancies Act (Northern Ireland) 2022: Full legislation text

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