What Legal Rights Do Flatshare Tenants Have Under the Renters’ Rights Act?

 
20/01/2026

If you’re renting a room in a London flatshare, you’re not alone. Flatsharing has become the go-to option for working professionals who want flexibility, affordability, and well-located homes. But with changing laws and headlines around tenant protections, it’s natural to ask: what legal rights do flatshare tenants actually have under the Renters’ Rights Act?


 

 

Understanding the Renters’ Rights Act in Simple Terms

The Renters’ Rights Act is designed to strengthen tenant protections across the private rental sector. Its core aim is to make renting fairer, more secure, and more transparent.

While many people assume these protections only apply to whole-property renters, flatshare tenants also benefit, depending on their rental setup.


Your rights mainly depend on:


  • Whether you live with your landlord

  • The type of agreement you have

  • Whether the property is professionally managed

Let’s unpack this step by step.

 

 

What Type of Flatshare Tenant Are You?

Before understanding your rights, you need to know your legal status.

1. Lodgers (Living With the Landlord)

If you share the home with the landlord, you’re usually a lodger. Lodgers have fewer rights under the Renters’ Rights Act.


  • The landlord can end the agreement more easily

  • Deposit protection rules are different

  • Notice periods are usually shorter

2. Flatshare Tenants (Living With Other Tenants)

If you rent a room in a shared property where the landlord does not live, you are typically a tenant.

This is where the Renters’ Rights Act provides stronger protections.

Most professional London flatshares fall into this category.

 

 

Key Legal Rights Flatshare Tenants Have Under the Renters’ Rights Act

1. Protection From Unfair Evictions

One of the biggest changes under the Renters’ Rights Act is improved eviction protection.

Flatshare tenants cannot be asked to leave without:

 

  • Proper notice

  • A valid legal reason

  • Correct paperwork

This is particularly important in London, where demand is high and informal arrangements can sometimes be abused.

Right Room only works with landlords who follow correct notice and eviction procedures, giving tenants peace of mind.

 

 

2. Clear and Transparent Rental Agreements

Tenants have the right to:


  • A written agreement

  • Clear rent amounts and payment terms

  • Transparent rules around bills and shared spaces

If anything is unclear, tenants have the right to ask for clarification before moving in.

Professional platforms like Right Room ensure contracts are clearly explained, not rushed, and aligned with UK rental law.

 

 

3. Deposit Protection

If you’re a flatshare tenant (not a lodger), your deposit must be protected in a government-approved scheme.

This means:


  • Your deposit cannot be withheld unfairly

  • You can dispute deductions

  • You’ll receive prescribed information confirming protection

This is one of the most important protections under the Renters’ Rights Act.

Right Room uses secure, transparent processes so tenants know exactly where their deposit stands.

 

 

4. Fair Rent and Rent Increase Rules

Under the Renters’ Rights Act:


  • Rent increases must be fair and justified

  • Tenants must receive proper notice

  • Sudden or excessive increases can be challenged

This matters in London flatshares, where market pressure can sometimes lead to unrealistic rent hikes.

Right Room helps keep rents aligned with market value, reducing the risk of unfair increases.

 

 

5. Safe and Well-Maintained Homes

Flatshare tenants have the right to live in a safe property.

Landlords are legally responsible for:


  • Gas and electrical safety

  • Fire safety in shared spaces

  • Structural repairs

  • Heating and hot water

If repairs are ignored, tenants have the right to escalate the issue.

Right Room only lists professionally managed homes that meet safety and compliance standards.

 

 

6. Protection From Discrimination

Under UK law, tenants cannot be discriminated against based on protected characteristics.

This applies equally to flatshare tenants, even when renting a single room.

A professional letting process helps remove bias and ensures fair access to housing.

 

 

Common Challenges Flatshare Tenants Still Face

Even with strong legal protections, tenants often face real-world challenges.

Unclear Agreements

Many flatshare renters move quickly due to high demand, sometimes agreeing to vague terms.

Informal Payments

Cash payments or unrecorded transfers can make disputes difficult.

Pressure to Decide Quickly

Tenants may feel rushed and skip important checks.

Lack of Knowledge

Many renters don’t realise which rights apply to them.

This is where structured platforms like Right Room add real value.

 

 

How Right Room Helps Tenants Rent Safely and Legally

Right Room is built specifically for professional London flatshares, with a strong focus on compliance and transparency.

Verified Landlords

Every landlord is checked before listing, reducing risk for tenants.

Clear Agreements

Rental terms are clearly explained before move-in.

Secure Payments

Deposits and rent are handled through secure systems.

Professional Support

Tenants can ask questions and get guidance throughout the process.

This removes much of the uncertainty that flatshare renters often face.

 

 

Practical Tips for Flatshare Tenants in London

To protect yourself under the Renters’ Rights Act:


  • Always ask for a written agreement

  • Confirm whether you are a tenant or lodger

  • Check deposit protection details

  • Keep records of all payments

  • Report safety concerns early

Using a trusted platform makes this process far easier.

 

 

Final Thoughts

The Renters’ Rights Act has significantly improved protections for flatshare tenants, especially those renting rooms in professional London flatshares.

Understanding your rights helps you avoid stress, protect your money, and rent with confidence.


Platforms like Right Room bridge the gap between legal protections and real-world renting, offering professional, compliant, and tenant-first flatshare solutions across London.

If you’re renting a room, knowing your rights isn’t optional. It’s essential.


 
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