Applies to EnglandLast review: 20 March 2026

RightsAct guide

Written information tenants should receive

What written information is expected and how tenants can use it to avoid confusion.

Applies to: EnglandBy RightsAct editorialLast reviewed 20 March 20261 min readGeneral information, not legal advice

What this page covers

  • Expected written info
  • Record-keeping
  • Practical follow-up

What this page does not cover

  • Contract negotiation support

Key takeaways

  • Ask in writing
  • Keep full records
  • Cross-check with official guidance

Here's the short version

Written information helps tenants understand terms, rights, and key process points. Missing or unclear information should be followed up in writing.

Use this as a practical summary, then confirm key details in the linked source pages.

What this means in practice

This page is written for tenants who need practical, date-aware next actions.

Start with facts in date order: tenancy status, notice type, service dates, and any court steps.

  • Step 1: Keep copies of all tenancy documents.
  • Step 2: Ask for missing details in writing.
  • Step 3: Check if information aligns with official guidance.

What changes now

The points below are the checks most likely to change outcomes in real cases.

  • Step 1: Read tenancy agreements and written information guidance
  • Step 2: Check information sheet topic

What to check next

Use this page with the source list, not in isolation. Keep documentary evidence and written communication records.

  • Primary scope: Expected written info, Record-keeping, Practical follow-up.
  • Out of scope: Contract negotiation support.
  • If your case is urgent or disputed, use professional advice with your documents to hand.

Common confusion

Many tenants think a verbal explanation is enough. For disputes, written records are usually far stronger.

Most avoidable mistakes come from relying on memory, verbal statements, or outdated templates rather than date-checked sources.

Examples

Scenario 1

You are dealing with expected written info and need a practical route through the new framework.

Scenario 2

Your case sits near the transition date, so you check dates and paperwork first before deciding the next action.

If you are a tenant

  • If you rent this home, focus on date checks, written records, and notice process before agreeing to anything.
  • Use the linked situation guides if notice, rent, or discrimination concerns are already live.

If you are a landlord

  • If you are letting this property, use current forms and clear evidence rather than legacy templates.
  • Document each step in writing so your process can be checked against guidance if challenged.

Common confusion

Many tenants think a verbal explanation is enough. For disputes, written records are usually far stronger.

What to check next

  • Read the listed official references in full and confirm publication dates.
  • Open information sheet 2026 (/topics/information-sheet-2026) for the next level of detail.
  • Open my tenancy is verbal (/situations/my-tenancy-is-verbal) for the next level of detail.
  • Keep copies of notices, tenancy documents, dates, and written communication records.

References

Source-first publishing model: check primary pages directly before acting on notices, possession routes, rent changes, or tenancy documentation.

  • Tenancy agreements: written information for your tenant

    GOV.UK • Published: 2025-11-13 • Last checked: 2026-03-20 • Status: active

    Guidance on written tenancy information duties for new and existing tenancy contexts.

    Open source
  • Guide to the Renters' Rights Act

    GOV.UK • Published: 2025-11-06 • Last checked: 2026-03-20 • Status: active

    Primary government overview of the Act, including tenancy reform, rent, possession grounds, discrimination, pets, and implementation framing.

    Open source
  • Renting out your property: guidance for landlords and letting agents

    GOV.UK • Published: 2025-11-13 • Last checked: 2026-03-20 • Status: active

    Master guidance index for landlord and agent operational pages linked to the Act rollout.

    Open source

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