The government has updated its guidance for landlords and letting agents, clarifying what can and cannot be charged during a tenancy. The changes focus on utilities and household bills, particularly council tax and TV licences, an area that has caused ongoing confusion under the Tenant Fees Act.
The amendments appear in the “Fees you can charge as part of a tenancy” section of the government’s renting guidance and apply to landlords and letting agents in England.
Clarification on Utilities and Household Bills
Although the Tenant Fees Act has been in force for several years, enforcement bodies continue to highlight misunderstandings around permitted payments. The latest update tightens interpretation and supports compliance.
The guidance now clearly distinguishes between general utilities and other household charges, and council tax and TV licences, which are subject to separate rules.
Council Tax Responsibilities
The revised guidance confirms that tenants can be required to pay council tax where applicable. However, liability is not always straightforward and depends on the nature of the property and how it is occupied.
Responsibility can vary between:
- Single-let properties
- Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs)
- Properties where the landlord remains liable under local authority regulations
The update is designed to help landlords and agents correctly identify who is legally responsible in different scenarios and avoid incorrectly passing on costs.
TV Licence Requirements
TV licence payments have also been specifically addressed. The guidance reiterates that tenants are responsible for holding a valid TV licence if they:
- Watch or stream live television, or
- Use BBC iPlayer
Landlords may still be liable in shared accommodations, depending on the tenancy structure and whether it’s individual or joint.
What This Means for Landlords and Agents
Importantly, the update does not change the law. It reinforces government expectations under the Tenant Fees Act and clarifies areas that have previously led to enforcement action.
Local authorities warn that incorrect charges, even if unintentional, can result in significant financial penalties.
Landlords and agents should review the updated guidance to ensure their agreements, billing, and tenant advice are compliant.
The amended guidance is now live on the UK government website.
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