Signing a Tenancy Agreement
The tenancy agreement is a contract between the landlord and the tenant. The agreement is designed to protect the interests of both parties involved and should state clearly the responsibilities of the landlord and the tenant.
Tenancy Agreement
The tenancy agreement is a contract between the landlord and the tenant. The agreement is designed to protect the interests of both parties involved and should state clearly the responsibilities of the landlord and the tenant.
Check that the tenancy agreement includes the following:-
- Name of the tenant(s)
- Name and address of landlord and the agent
- Property address Length of tenancy
- Date tenancy begins
- Length of notice required
- Amount of deposit required – detailing where it is held, when you get it back and what circumstances under which you won’t get it back
- Amount of rent payable, when it is due and method of payment
- What the rent covers – does it include bills, council tax and other charges?
- Whether the property will be furnished
- Landlord responsibilities – external and structural repairs, safety etc
- Rules of tenancy – pets, subletting, lodgers, guests, smoking, usage of property etc
- Ensure that you read the tenancy agreement thoroughly and receive a copy for your own records.
Responsibilities of the tenant
- Pay rent, household bills and other applicable charges
- Keep the property secure at all times
- Repair any damages caused by you to the property
- Abide by the rules of the tenancy, as detailed in the tenancy agreement
- Keep the property clean and tidy
- Insure your own possessions
- If you rent a property which is found to be unfit for human habitation the rent you will be able to recover irrespective of any written agreement your tenant has signed will be subject to statutory control.
Responsibilities of the landlord
- Repair and maintain the property
- Ensure that the property is in good working order and equipped for the tenant to move into and inhabit
- Inform the tenant when they intend on entering the property to do repairs etc (usually 24 hours notice will suffice)
- Insure the property and all contents that do not belong to the tenant
- If you are letting a property your tenant has rights and must be given a statement of terms and a rent book.
