Q What are the requirements and obligations of the tenant?
A The Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement you have signed is a legal document which is between your Landlord and yourself under the Housing Act 1988.
Basically, you are required to return the property to the Landlord at the end of the tenancy in the same condition as at the start, allowing for fair wear and tear.
However, please do refer to the Agreement for detailed information regarding any specific issues.
Q What is the notice period?
A You need to confirm your notice in writing by giving one month´s notice. If the Landlord wants to take possession of the property for any reason after the fixed term, you will be given a minimum two months´ notice in writing.
Q I have signed a six month Tenancy Agreement. What happens if I want to leave at the end of the six month period?
A You may leave at the end of the six month term, however, it is still required that you confirm your notice in writing to Monks one month prior to the end of the lease.
Q What happens if I want to vacate the property prior to the end of my 6 month term?
A If you vacate the property early you will be responsible for the rent and utilities bills for the period until the end of the term. We will, however, take Landlords instructions with a view to remarketing the property and provided we secure a satisfactory tenant, and with agreement of the Landlord, we will release you from your obligations once the new tenant moves in.
Q Can anyone else move into the property?
A It is not permitted for anyone over the age of 18 (other than the individuals named on the Tenancy Agreement) or anyone under the age of 18 (other than individuals named on the application form) to live at the premises. Therefore, it is imperative that you discuss any potential future residents with Monks. This is so that the application process can then be completed and Landlord´s instructions sought. If approval to proceed is obtained from the Landlord, a new Tenancy Agreement will be drawn up, which will require signing as appropriate. Otherwise, if this action is not taken, you will be in breach of your Tenancy Agreement.
More legal information..........
The Assured Shorthold Tenancy was introduced by the Housing Act 1988 and subsequently amended by the Housing Act 1996. The initial fixed term is usually for a period of six months.
Under the terms of this agreement, the Landlord is entitled to vacant possession at the end of the term. It is not possible for either party to give notice prior to the end of the fixed term, except in certain circumstances such as non-payment of rent. After the fixed period, if the Landlord requires possession, then notice of at least two months must be given. The tenancy can also be brought to an end after the fixed period by the tenant giving one month's notice.
At the end of the fixed period, if the Landord does not give notice, the tenant may remain at the property. If both parties are in agreement, the tenancy may continue indefinitely. (Thereafter the notice requirements for either party remain the same).
Under the terms of the agreement, the Landlord is responsible for the repair and maintenance of the structure and exterior of the property, together with the installations such as gas, electricity, sanitation appliances, space and water heating equipment.
The Landlord remains responsible for the Buildings Insurance in respect of the property.
Once the tenancy agreement commences, the tenants are responsible for insuring their contents.
MORE INFORMATION REGARDING LANDLORD AND TENANT RESPONSIBILITIES CAN BE OBTAINED FROM MONKS, THE CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU OR THE COMMUNITIES AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT WEBSITE http://www.communities.gov.uk