Tenant Fees Explained – Your Rights and Responsibilities in Bournemouth, Poole & Christchurch

If you're renting a property in Bournemouth, Poole, or Christchurch, understanding your tenant rights and the letting fees you can legally be charged is essential. Whether you’re a student tenant or renting long-term, this guide will help you stay informed, avoid illegal charges, and protect your deposit.

At Stewarts Estates, we’re committed to transparent lettings fees and full compliance with the Tenant Fees Act 2019. Here’s what you need to know.

The Tenant Fees Act 2019 applies to most residential and student tenancies in England. It bans unnecessary or hidden charges and allows only a short list of permitted tenant fees.

• Holding Deposit

  • Capped at one week’s rent

  • Used to secure the property during referencing

  • Must be refunded unless you withdraw or provide false/misleading information

• Security Deposit

  • Up to 5 weeks’ rent if the annual rent is below £50,000

  • Up to 6 weeks’ rent if the annual rent is £50,000 or more

  • Must be held in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme

• Tenancy Agreement Changes

  • £50 (inc. VAT) for changes like swapping a tenant or modifying clauses

  • Higher charges must be supported with written proof of extra cost

• Late Rent Payment Fees

  • Capped at 3% above the Bank of England base rate

  • Can only be charged if rent is overdue by 14 days or more

• Early Termination (Tenant-Initiated)

  • Charged only to cover the actual loss or reasonable costs to the landlord or agent

  • Must be agreed in advance and not used as a penalty

• Lost Keys / Security Devices

  • Replacements charged at cost, with receipts provided

• Tenant Lockouts

  • A reasonable fee may apply if a tenant requires access due to being locked out, especially outside of office hours

Letting agents cannot charge you for:

• Property viewings

• Admin or setup fees

• Referencing or credit checks

• Inventory checks or check-in/out fees

• Renewal fees for extending your tenancy

• Mandatory professional cleaning at move-out (unless agreed and justified via the deposit)

If you're asked to pay any of these, it's likely illegal under the Tenant Fees Act.

Whether you're renting a family home or student accommodation in Bournemouth, your rights include:

• The right to see all fees before signing your tenancy agreement

• The right to have your deposit protected within 30 days of payment

• The right to challenge illegal or unfair charges

• The right to report breaches to Trading Standards or an industry redress scheme

While your rights are protected, tenants also have key responsibilities:

• Pay rent on time and in full

• Take care of the property and report damage or maintenance needs promptly

• Follow the terms of the tenancy (e.g. no unauthorised pets or subletting)

• Leave the property clean and in good condition at the end of your tenancy

If you’re entering a student tenancy in Bournemouth, especially in shared HMO accommodation:

• Your joint tenancy means you may share responsibility for rent and damage

• You are still protected under the Tenant Fees Act

• Your deposit must be protected just like any residential tenancy

• Letting agents cannot charge you admin, referencing, or check-in fees — even if you are an international student

Stewarts Estates offers clear, compliant tenant fees and full support throughout your tenancy. We work with both private and student renters across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch — with no hidden costs.

Get in touch with our lettings team — we’ll explain your rights and help you navigate your tenancy confidently.

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