If you`re a landlord in the UK, chances are you`ve come across the term “assured shorthold tenancy agreement” (AST) at some point. Under the UK`s Housing Act 1988, the AST has become the most common form of tenancy agreement used by private landlords.
But what exactly is an AST, and what does it entail for landlords and tenants alike? Read on to find out more.
What is an assured shorthold tenancy agreement?
An AST is a type of tenancy agreement that allows a landlord to grant a tenant exclusive possession of a property for a fixed term, usually six months or a year. During this time, the tenant has the right to live in the property and use it as their home, while the landlord has the right to receive rent payments for the duration of the agreement.
Under an AST, the landlord is also required to provide the tenant with certain information about the property, such as the landlord`s contact details and information on how to make repairs. Additionally, the landlord must ensure that the property meets certain health and safety standards, and must not interfere with the tenant`s right to live in peace and quiet.
What rights does an AST give tenants?
Under an AST, tenants have a number of rights, including:
– The right to live in the property for the duration of the agreement
– The right to be protected from illegal eviction and harassment by the landlord
– The right to peace and quiet, and to not be disturbed by the landlord or other tenants
– The right to have repairs carried out in a timely manner
– The right to challenge excessive rent increases
– The right to have their deposit protected in a government-approved scheme
What are the landlord`s responsibilities under an AST?
As mentioned earlier, landlords have certain responsibilities under an AST, including:
– Ensuring that the property meets certain health and safety standards
– Providing the tenant with certain information about the property and their rights as a tenant
– Allowing the tenant to live in peace and quiet
– Carrying out repairs in a timely manner
– Not interfering with the tenant`s right to live in the property
Additionally, landlords must protect the tenant`s deposit in a government-approved scheme within 30 days of receiving it. Failure to do so can result in the tenant being able to claim compensation from the landlord.
Conclusion
An assured shorthold tenancy agreement is a common form of tenancy agreement used by private landlords in the UK. Under an AST, tenants have certain rights, while landlords have certain responsibilities. If you`re a landlord, it`s important to ensure that your AST is in compliance with the Housing Act 1988 and that you are fulfilling your obligations under the agreement.
Comments
Powered by Facebook Comments
