Terminology Explained

Regulated Tenancy

Most continuing private tenancies entered into before 15 January 1989 are regulated tenancies under the Rent Act 1977. This means that the tenant has long term security of tenure and that both the landlord and the tenant have the right to have a Fair rent registered for the tenancy by an independent rent officer. Both also have a right to appeal to a rent assessment committee if they are dissatisfied with the rent officer's decision.

Once a rent is registered, the landlord cannot normally charge a higher rent without reapplying to the rent officer and a new application for registration is not possible for two years unless there is a relevant change of circumstances. The Housing Act 1988, which introduced assured and assured shorthold tenancies at market rents for most new lettings on or after 15 January 1989, did not change existing tenants' rights to security of tenure and rent control.