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Things to consider when renting

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2. Assured Shorthold Tenancies

You need to know if you have, or will have, an Assured Shorthold Tenancy, or a Licence to occupy your home. If you have an An Assured Shorthold Tenancy you will have more legal rights than someone who has a licence. It is important that you understand what rights you have in your home.

You will usually be a tenant if you meet the following:

  • you live in a flat, or house
  • you pay rent to your landlord
  • you don’t share your home with your landlord

If you share a house with other people that are not family members, you have your own room, but share a kitchen and/or a bathroom with others you are likely to be considered a tenant providing that the landlord does not also share the property.