Moving into a rental property
If you are planning to rent a property to live in it is important to understand what obligations you are taking on before signing on the dotted line. There are two main types of tenancy agreement – the assured shorthold tenancy and the assured tenancy.
Assured shorthold tenancy – The most common form of tenancy offered by private sector landlords in England and Wales, they normally grant you a right of residence limited to six months, although you can stay longer at the landlord’s discretion.
Assured tenancy – The most common form of tenancy offered by local authority landlords and housing associations. Assured tenancies normally grant you more security.
Scottish law provides for short assured tenancies and assured tenancies which are similar to those in England and Wales.
Common areas of dispute between landlord and tenant
- What notice of eviction does the landlord have to give?
- How much notice do you have to give if you want to leave?
- What happens to your deposit at the end of the agreement?
- What condition do I have to leave the property in?
- What is included in the rent and can the landlord increase it?
- What restrictions, such as in relation to pets and noise, are imposed through the tenancy agreement?
- What happens if the landlord fails to maintain the property in good condition?
- How can I deal with anti-social neighbours?
Solicitors’ fees
Solicitors who are experts in landlord and tenant law can help you with the above issues and explain your obligations as a tenant. Legal fees will depend on the level of expertise of the solicitor you employ.
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