4. What is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy?
An Assured Shorthold Tenancy confirms the landlord has allowed you to use his property in exchange for you paying rent each week or each month. They are usually a 6 month contract from the date you move in, but they could be 12 months or longer if you and your landlord agree to a longer term.
You should read your tenancy agreement before signing it. It may contain specific rules for you living in the property, for example:
- no pets are permitted at the property
- you must not decorate without written permission from the landlord
- your rent is due on a specific day each month
It may also contain specific information about how to report repairs and which repairs are your responsibility. It should also contain legal information about how to end your tenancy and how the landlord can end the tenancy.
Your tenancy cannot be ended during the initial 6 months, unless you are not paying your rent, or you are breaking the rules of your tenancy agreement.