Probably the most important thing about renting a home is to make sure you know what your rights and responsibilities are, and what to do if any problems arise.
Even if you see it as just an informal arrangement, it's best to get everything in writing, to avoid any misunderstandings later on.
"Tenancy" means a formal agreement about renting accommodation, which has certain features required by law. Any other arrangement is known as an "occupancy agreement".
There are also some rights and responsibilities which you have automatically by law. These include the process a landlord has to go through if he wants you to leave, and you don't want to. No matter what your tenancy or occupancy agreement says, you can't sign away these rights, or avoid these responsibilities.
This section tells you what is required by law. It covers Regulated, Assured and Short Assured Tenancies, and the rules that apply if you rent from a resident landlord - where you live in part of their own home - if your accommodation is provided with your work, and in shared housing. It also outlines general rules against discrimination, harassment and anti-social behaviour.
This section contains tips on what to look for in a tenancy or occupancy agreement, beyond the minimum legal requirements, and how to have a good relationship with your landlord.