With increasing focus on standards in the private rental sector, Rent Repayment Orders (RROs) are something every landlord should understand.

While they’re often discussed from a tenant’s perspective, they carry serious implications for landlords who don’t meet legal requirements.

Here’s a straightforward guide to what they are, and how to stay on the right side of them.

What Is a Rent Repayment Order?

A Rent Repayment Order is a legal ruling that can require a landlord to repay rent if certain housing laws have been broken.

In some cases, this can mean paying back up to 12 months’ rent (increasing to 24 months under the renters’ Rights Act), a significant financial impact for any landlord.

When Could a Landlord Be at Risk?

RROs are not issued for minor issues, they apply to serious breaches of housing legislation.

Common examples include:

• Letting a property that requires a licence (such as an HMO) without having one
• Failing to comply with improvement or prohibition notices from the council
• Illegal eviction or harassment of tenants
• Knowingly or recklessly misusing a possession ground
• Breaching a banning order
• Using unlawful methods to gain access to a property 

In short, if a property is not being managed in line with legal standards, there is potential exposure.

How Are RROs Decided?

Cases are handled by the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) rather than a traditional court.

Tenants or local authorities can apply, and the tribunal will review:

• Whether an offence has taken place
• The seriousness of the breach
• The amount of rent paid during that period 

Importantly, a landlord does not always need a criminal conviction for an order to be made, the tribunal only needs to be satisfied that an offence occurred.

What Determines the Amount Repaid?

The tribunal considers several factors, including:

• The severity of the offence
• Whether the landlord has previous offences
• The conduct of both landlord and tenant
• Any mitigating circumstances 

This means outcomes can vary, but the financial consequences can be substantial.

Why This Matters More Than Ever

With updated guidance and increasing enforcement, Rent Repayment Orders are becoming a more commonly used tool.

For landlords, this reflects a wider shift in the industry:

• Greater accountability
• Higher compliance expectations
• Increased tenant awareness 

Put simply, professional standards are no longer optional, they’re essential.

How to Protect Yourself as a Landlord

The good news is that RROs are entirely avoidable with the right approach.

Key steps include:

• Ensuring all required licences are in place
• Keeping up to date with changing legislation
• Responding promptly to any council notices
• Maintaining clear, professional communication with tenants
• Working with a knowledgeable letting agent 

Rent Repayment Orders are designed to tackle serious non-compliance, not to catch out responsible landlords.

For those who manage their properties correctly, they simply reinforce the importance of doing things properly.

Let with Confidence

At Boydens, we help landlords stay compliant, protect their investments, and deliver a professional service to tenants.