TENANCY CONTRACTS

MOST private landlords let property on an assured shorthold tenancy agreement. Such agreements normally have a fixed term of six or 12 months then continue on a r ol l i ng monthly basis or are renewed for another fixed term.

Danielle Clements, property litigation specialist at Gorvins Solicitors, says: ‘An assured shorthold tenancy gives tenants certain stipulations they need to abide by and also certain rights to protect them, such as not being evicted without notice. The agreement means the tenant has a legal interest in the property and that the landlord has given up certain powers on their property. For example, not being able to turn up unannounced and demand to enter the property. This has to be agreed with the tenant.’

Landlords could be forced to offer tenants three-year tenancies if new Government proposals become law.

Plans under consultation mean landlords would be tied-in for three years but tenants would be able to leave before the end of the minimum term.

The aim is to give renters more security. Landlords are generally opposed to the plans, which will make mortgage lenders wary about approving loans.