Tenant Fees in England | Allie Home Ltd

Tenant fees in England are tightly controlled. The Tenant Fees Act 2019 sets out what landlords and letting agents can ask tenants to pay, and the 2026 rental reforms have added further rules around rent in advance and advertising.

This guide is for tenants, landlords and overseas property owners who want a clear, current overview as at August 2026.

Rent and rent in advance

Since 1 May 2026, a landlord or agent cannot ask for, encourage or accept rent before the tenancy agreement is signed. After the agreement is signed and before the tenancy starts, the maximum rent in advance is usually one month.

Rent should be clearly set out in the tenancy agreement. Written adverts must state a specific rent, and landlords or agents must not encourage or accept offers above the advertised rent.

Tenancy deposit

A refundable tenancy deposit can be required, but it is capped. For properties with annual rent below £50,000, the maximum is five weeks rent. For annual rent between £50,000 and £100,000, the maximum is six weeks rent.

If a deposit is taken, it must be protected in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme, and the tenant must receive the required prescribed information.

Holding deposit

A holding deposit reserves a property while checks are carried out. The maximum holding deposit is one week's rent, and only one holding deposit should be taken for the same tenancy at a time.

The standard deadline for agreement is 15 calendar days unless a different period is agreed in writing. The deposit usually has to be returned unless the tenant withdraws, fails a Right to Rent check, gives materially false or misleading information, or does not take reasonable steps to progress the tenancy.

Other permitted payments

Utilities, communication services and council tax where the tenancy agreement allows it.
A capped payment for a tenant-requested change to the tenancy.
Payment where the tenant ends the tenancy without giving the correct notice.
Default fees for late rent or replacement keys/security devices, where allowed and evidenced.

Fees that are not allowed

Landlords and agents cannot charge tenants for payments that are not permitted. Common examples include admin fees, viewing fees, inventory fees, reference fees and checkout fees.

Tenants should ask for a written breakdown of any payment they are asked to make. Landlords should make sure any charge is allowed before requesting it.

Why this matters for landlords

Incorrect fees can lead to complaints, penalties and problems later if possession action is needed. Good compliance also builds trust with tenants and helps protect the landlord's position.

If you need help letting or managing a London rental property, contact Allie Home at lettings@alliehome.co.uk.