Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement Means

Assured shorthold tenancy agreements, commonly known as ASTs, are one of the most popular types of rental agreements in the UK. This type of tenancy agreement gives a tenant the right to occupy a property for a specified period of time without the landlord residing in the property. The landlord still owns the property and has legal responsibilities towards the tenant during their occupancy. In this article, we will discuss what an assured shorthold tenancy agreement means and what it entails.

Definition of Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement

An AST is a type of tenancy agreement that is designed to protect both landlords and tenants. It is a legal contract between a landlord and a tenant that outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy, including the length of time the tenancy will last, the rent payable, and the obligations and responsibilities of both parties.

The Housing Act 1988 introduced the concept of the AST, and it has become the most common type of rental agreement in the UK. This type of tenancy provides a high level of flexibility for both the landlord and the tenant, as it can be for any period, subject to a minimum of six months.

Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement Obligations

The AST outlines all of the obligations and responsibilities of the landlord and the tenant. These obligations include:

Landlord obligations

– To provide the tenant with a written contract outlining all the terms and conditions of the tenancy

– To provide the tenant with a copy of the government`s “How to Rent” guide at the start of the tenancy

– To ensure that the property is safe and habitable

– To keep the property in good repair

– To provide the tenant with notice if they want to enter the property

Tenant obligations

– To pay the rent on time

– To keep the property clean and in good condition

– To report any repairs required to the landlord immediately

– To abide by the terms and conditions of the tenancy agreement

Termination of the Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement

An AST can be terminated in two ways: by the landlord serving notice or by the tenant leaving the property at the end of the tenancy. The notice period required depends on the type of notice being served.

If the landlord wants to end the tenancy, they must serve notice in writing. There are two types of notice that can be served: a “section 21” or a “section 8” notice. A section 21 notice can be served at any time, while a section 8 notice can only be served if the tenant has breached the terms of the tenancy agreement.

Conclusion

An assured shorthold tenancy agreement is a legal contract between a landlord and a tenant. It outlines all of the obligations and responsibilities of both parties, ensuring that both parties are aware of their responsibilities. An AST provides both the landlord and the tenant with a high level of flexibility, and it can be terminated by either party giving the appropriate notice. If you are a landlord or a tenant, it is essential that you understand the terms and conditions of the AST to ensure that you are protected and comply with the agreement.