What evidence rent tribunals give weight to
A rent tribunal decides the rent from the evidence the tenant and landlord send and its own knowledge of local rents. Evidence that clearly shows what similar homes nearby actually let for carries the most weight.
Rents that were actually agreed
Tenancy agreements for similar homes nearby show rents people really pay. GOV.UK says evidence from agreed lettings is stronger than listings from letting agents or websites.
Advertised rents
Listings on sites such as Rightmove or Zoopla show asking rents, which can be more than the rent finally agreed. Tribunals often give asking rents less weight, but several similar listings close by can still help.
How similar the homes are
The closer a comparison is to the home in question, the more it helps. Look for homes that are:
- as close as possible, ideally in the same street or neighbourhood
- the same type and size, such as a 2-bedroom flat
- in similar condition, with similar facilities
- let recently
The home's condition
- Send photos of the outside and of every room.
- Show any disrepair or damp, with copies of reports you made to the landlord.
- Say what the tenant provided themselves, such as white goods, carpets or curtains.
- Ask for an inspection if the condition matters to your case, and explain why.
Tribunals usually take money off the rent for these. Read how rent tribunals decide the rent.
Past tribunal decisions
Decisions for similar homes nearby show how tribunals have valued them, but each case is decided on its own evidence and rents change over time. Search decisions near a postcode or browse decisions by area.