Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement Under the Housing Act 1988

If you`re a landlord or a tenant in England or Wales, then it`s important to know about the Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement. This type of agreement is commonly used in the private rented sector and is governed by the Housing Act 1988 (as amended by the Housing Act 1996).

What is an AST agreement?

An AST agreement is a type of tenancy agreement that applies to most private residential tenancies in England and Wales. It gives tenants the right to occupy the property for a fixed period of time, usually six or twelve months. After this fixed period, the tenancy can be renewed or it can become a rolling tenancy which continues until either the tenant or landlord gives notice to end it.

What are the key features of an AST agreement?

An AST agreement must meet certain legal requirements, including:

– The tenancy must be for a fixed term, which cannot be less than six months.

– The landlord must provide the tenant with certain information, including a copy of the government`s How to rent guide and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC) for the property.

– The agreement must include certain terms, such as the rent payable, the date that the rent is due, and the length of notice required if either party wants to end the tenancy.

– The landlord can only end the tenancy if they have a valid reason, such as rent arrears or breach of the tenancy agreement. They must also follow the correct legal procedure, which usually involves serving notice on the tenant and obtaining a court order.

What are the benefits of an AST agreement?

An AST agreement provides benefits for both landlords and tenants, including:

– For landlords, an AST agreement provides a degree of security and certainty. They know that they can let their property for a fixed period of time and that they have legal rights if the tenant breaches the agreement.

– For tenants, an AST agreement provides a degree of security and certainty. They know that they can occupy the property for a fixed period of time and that their rent cannot be increased during this period. They also have legal rights if the landlord breaches the agreement.

In conclusion, an AST agreement is an important legal document for both landlords and tenants in England and Wales. It provides a degree of security and certainty for both parties and must meet certain legal requirements to be valid. If you`re a landlord or a tenant, it`s important to seek professional advice to ensure that your AST agreement is valid and meets your needs.