Rent books and receipts

A landlord is legally obliged to provide a rent book if the rent is payable on a weekly basis. Failure to provide a rent book is a criminal offence. This applies even if the rent is paid electronically to the landlord’s bank account.

A landlord is legally obliged to provide a rent book if the rent is payable on a weekly basis. Failure to provide a rent book is a criminal offence. This applies even if the rent is paid electronically to the landlord’s bank account.

The rent book provided must, by law contain certain information. Standard rent books for assured and assured shorthold tenancies can be obtained from law stationers and larger general stationers. However, the landlord should also keep a record of rent payments and provide receipts for rent paid (particularly for cash payments) for all tenancies to avoid any disagreements later.

A landlord may choose to have the rent paid directly into a bank account or, in certain circumstances, may be prepared to accept cash or cheques. Needless to say, if the rent is paid electronically it is important to keep an eye on the bank account to ensure that it is paid on time.

If the rent is paid by cash or cheque it is good practice to issue the tenant with a receipt, even if a rent book is not required. This also provides the landlord with a record of rent payments, including any persistent delays in paying rent that may prove grounds for possession later.