Rent arrears

rent uh-REERZ

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What it really means

Rent that you owe because you have missed payments. Arrears can affect your references and, if they build up, the landlord can start steps to end the tenancy. If you are struggling, talk to the landlord early — Shelter has free advice.

Chinese explanation

欠付的房租。欠租会影响你的租房推荐信，累积过多时房东可以启动终止租约的程序。如遇困难，尽早与房东沟通——Shelter 提供免费建议。

Example conversation

A: I’m two weeks late with the rent. B: Contact the landlord now and agree a plan before the arrears grow.

A：我的房租晚交了两周。 B：现在就联系房东，趁欠款还没变多先商量一个还款计划。

What you could say back

“I'd like to agree a payment plan to clear the arrears.”

Related phrases

Standing order Notice period

Official sources

Rules and amounts change — confirm important details with the official source.

Go deeper

Council Tax Explained: What Newcomers Need to Know How Renting Works in the UK: A Step-by-Step Guide UK Utility Bills: Setting Up Energy, Water, Broadband and the TV Licence

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Reviewed by the UK Decoded editorial team · Last checked 24 July 2026 · Report a mistake