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Rent Repayment Orders (RRO)
If your landlord has broken housing laws, you may be able to claim back rent through a legal process. Here's what you need to know about your rights and how to take action.
Rent Repayment Orders (RROs) are legal tools that allow tenants or local councils to claim back rent from landlords who break certain housing laws. They help hold landlords accountable and compensate tenants when rules are violated.
What Is an RRO?
An RRO can require a landlord to repay:
- up to 12 months’ rent for each offence
- up to 2 years’ rent if multiple offences occurred
When can you apply for an RRO?
You (or the council) can apply if your landlord has committed any of the following offences:
- renting out a property that should be licensed (e.g. an unlicensed HMO)
- ignoring an improvement notice from the Council
- harassing or illegally evicting a tenant
- breaking a prohibition order
- using violence to enter a property
- violating a banning order under the Housing and Planning Act 2016
You don’t need to have moved out to apply. In some cases, you can still apply even if you no longer live at the property.
Who can apply?
- Tenants – to recover rent paid during the offence period.
- Norwich City Council – to recover Housing Benefit or Universal Credit paid to the landlord.
Tenants can apply on their own or with help from an adviser. The council may also support or apply on behalf of tenants in some cases.
How to apply
Submit your application to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)
You must apply within 12 months of the offence ending.
How much rent can be reclaimed?
The Tribunal decides the amount based on:
- how serious the offence was
- the landlord’s history and behaviour
- whether the landlord has already been fined or prosecuted
- any special circumstances
If the landlord has been fined or prosecuted, this can strengthen your case for full repayment.
Helpful resources
Need help?
If you think you may be eligible for an RRO, want to report a housing offence or an unlicensed HMO, contact the Private Sector Housing Team.
