An assured tenancy agreement, governed by the UK government’s Housing Act of 1988, grants tenants the right to live in their rented property for a period of time without any fear of eviction or rent increase. This article will examine the specifics of assured tenancy agreements, including their types, benefits, and legal rights and obligations of both the landlord and the tenant.
Types of assured tenancy agreements
Assured tenancy agreements fall into two categories: assured shorthold and assured tenancy. An assured shorthold tenancy is the most common type and typically lasts for six to twelve months, after which the tenancy can be renewed or extended as deemed necessary by both parties. On the other hand, an assured tenancy agreement has no fixed term and can continue indefinitely. The agreement is only terminated if either the tenant or the landlord ends it by serving notice.
Benefits of assured tenancy agreements
Assured tenancy agreements offer numerous benefits to both landlords and tenants. For tenants, they provide a sense of security, knowing that they cannot be evicted on a whim and that their rent will not increase arbitrarily. In contrast, landlords benefit from the assurance of a long-term guaranteed income stream provided by a tenant who has signed an assured tenancy agreement.
Legal rights and obligations of landlords
Landlords have certain legal obligations under an assured tenancy agreement, including making sure the property is safe and habitable, providing a reasonable level of repair, and supplying the tenant with gas and electricity certificates. They also have the right to charge a reasonable rent, collect rent on time, and take legal action if rent is unpaid.
Legal rights and obligations of tenants
Tenants, too, have legal obligations under an assured tenancy agreement. They must carry out any repairs that are their responsibility, such as replacing light bulbs or keeping the property clean and tidy. They must also pay the rent on time and avoid any behavior that could cause damage to the property or upset the neighbors.
In conclusion, assured tenancy agreements provide numerous benefits to both landlords and tenants, including security, long-term guaranteed income, and a sense of responsibility. Understanding the specifics of these agreements, including legal rights and obligations, is crucial for both parties in ensuring a harmonious and mutually beneficial tenancy agreement.