Before the Renters' Rights Act, some landlords demanded several months' rent upfront, particularly from tenants with poor credit, no UK references, or irregular income. This created a significant financial barrier and was often used to circumvent the deposit cap by disguising extra deposits as "advance rent".
Since May 1st, 2026, landlords can only require one month's rent (or 28 days' worth for shorter rent periods) in advance at the start of a tenancy. Demanding more is prohibited, and this applies regardless of the tenant's circumstances. Tenants can offer to pay rent ahead of time after the tenancy has started, and the landlord is allowed to accept this, but the landlord is prohibited from encouraging or accepting any offers before the tenancy has started.
If a landlord or letting agent asks you to pay more than one month's rent in advance, refuse and report it. This is a prohibited payment under the Renters' Rights Act.
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