Renting in Reading
Reading Borough Council · South East
Local council rules, licensing schemes, and tenant resources for renters in Reading.
Licensing Schemes
Active Schemes
HMO Licence Fee
£850 - £1,100
Estimated 16,000 private rented properties in the Reading area.
HMO Rules in Reading
Reading operates mandatory HMO licensing. The town's strong commuter links to London and growing tech sector drive significant rental demand. The council monitors property standards through its environmental health team.
Check the HMO Register
View the public HMO register: Reading Borough Council HMO Register
What landlords must do:
- Obtain the correct licence for the property type
- Meet minimum room sizes (6.51m2 for one person, 10.22m2 for two)
- Provide adequate kitchen and bathroom facilities
- Install and maintain fire safety equipment
- Keep the property in good repair and free from hazards
Report a Housing Problem
If you are experiencing issues with your rented property in Reading, contact the council's environmental health team. They can investigate complaints about damp, mould, disrepair, overcrowding, and other hazards.
Phone
0118 937 3787
Contact via website
Council Website
www.reading.gov.ukTenant Advice in Reading
Local Advice Line
Reading CAB: 0118 960 5400
Free help is available from:
- Shelter (national housing charity, free advice line: 0808 800 4444)
- Citizens Advice (free, confidential advice on housing issues)
- Your local council's housing advice service
Rental Market in Reading
2-Bed Rent
£1,250
/month
Avg Yield
4.7%
Growth (YoY)
4.6%
Demand
High
Your Rights as a Renter
Whether you are renting in Readingor anywhere else in the UK, you have legal protections as a tenant. The Renters' Rights Bill strengthens these protections further.
Check a Property in Reading
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