What evidence do I need to prepare for an RRO claim?

To make a claim, you must identify the specific offence committed by your landlord and map it to one of the seven eligible offences. You should gather your tenancy agreement, rent payment history, and any photos or correspondence relating to the offence. You must also calculate the rent paid in the 12 months before the offence occurred.

How do I submit an RRO claim and is there a fee?

You must apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) using Form RRO1. The application is free for tenants. You must submit your claim within 12 months of the date the offence was committed. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the right to claim.

How long does the RRO process take and what happens at the hearing?

The process typically takes between 3 and 9 months. After you submit your application, the Tribunal will hold a hearing. Based on the evidence, the Tribunal may award up to 12 months' rent, grant a partial award, or refuse the claim entirely.

How much money can I get back if I win my claim?

The maximum amount you can recover is 12 months' rent, calculated based on the rent paid in the 12 months before the offence. While the legal maximum is tied to rent paid, Tribunal awards typically range between £5,000 and £20,000.

All Legal Journeys

Housing Law

England only

4 stages

3–9 months

Reviewed 2026-05-22

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

Frequently asked questions

What evidence do I need to prepare for an RRO claim?: To make a claim, you must identify the specific offence committed by your landlord and map it to one of the seven eligible offences. You should gather your tenancy agreement, rent payment history, and any photos or correspondence relating to the offence. You must also calculate the rent paid in the 12 months before the offence occurred.
How do I submit an RRO claim and is there a fee?: You must apply to the First-tier Tribunal (Property Chamber) using Form RRO1. The application is free for tenants. You must submit your claim within 12 months of the date the offence was committed. If you miss this deadline, you may lose the right to claim.
How long does the RRO process take and what happens at the hearing?: The process typically takes between 3 and 9 months. After you submit your application, the Tribunal will hold a hearing. Based on the evidence, the Tribunal may award up to 12 months' rent, grant a partial award, or refuse the claim entirely.
How much money can I get back if I win my claim?: The maximum amount you can recover is 12 months' rent, calculated based on the rent paid in the 12 months before the offence. While the legal maximum is tied to rent paid, Tribunal awards typically range between £5,000 and £20,000.