Rent Repayment Order (RRO) claim journey

Tenant claim for up to 12 months' rent back from a landlord who has committed certain housing offences (e.g. illegal eviction, unprotected deposit, HMO without licence).

This page applies in England only — different rules may apply in Wales, Scotland, or Northern Ireland.

Who Uses This Journey

Tenants in England whose landlord has committed an RRO-eligible offence (Housing and Planning Act 2016 s.40). Up to 12 months' rent recoverable.

Stage-by-Stage Timeline

Identify the offence

Map the conduct to one of the 7 RRO-eligible offences (illegal eviction, unprotected deposit, HMO unlicensed, etc.).

Evidence Needed

Tenancy agreement
Rent payment history
Photos / correspondence relating to the offence

Calculate the rent paid

RRO can be up to 12 months' rent. Calculate the rent paid in the 12 months before the offence.

Apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber)

Use Form RRO1. Free for tenants. 12-month limitation from the date of the offence.

Forms at This Stage

RRO1

Hearing and award

Tribunal hearing. Awards typically £5,000–£20,000.

Possible Outcomes

RRO awarded (up to 12 months' rent)
Partial award
Refused

Official Sources

Housing and Planning Act 2016 s.40 FTT (Property Chamber) — RRO