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The Law Society is warning tenants that they could be at risk if they don't have the correct legal advice when renting a home.
It said last week that renting is on the increase as banks and building societies cut back on their lending.
But before signing a tenancy agreement, the Law Society recommends taking legal advice so people understand their rights and avoid the hazards.
Law Society president Andrew Holroyd said: "Most tenants don't take advice until matters have reached crisis point and they find themselves evicted or their rights abused.
"So see a solicitor before you agree to your landlord's proposed terms. They will explain your rights and duties as a tenant and ensure that your tenancy agreement meets your needs and protects your rights."
There is no law in England and Wales that requires landlords to provide a written tenancy agreement, but the Law Society advises tenants to ask for one even if the landlord is a friend or family member.
Without a written agreement it is the tenant's word against the landlord's and a disagreement could be hard to resolve.
Last April the Tenancy Deposit Scheme was launched to protect tenant's money but research suggests that one in five landlords don't realise the mandatory nature of the scheme.
