What to pay attention to on a tenancy agreement

What to pay attention to on a tenancy agreement

A tenancy agreement can be described as the binding contract signed between you and your landlord. It clearly sets out all the legal terms and conditions in regards to your tenancy, and what type it is. For this reason, it might be fixed (spanning through a set period, for instance, six months) or periodic (runs through on weekly basis, or even every month).

Paying close attention to every detail in your tenancy agreement should never be an option. Why? This document outlines the do’s and don’ts, your landlords’ expectations, duration of the contract, etc.

Generally, there are vital details each tenant should consider getting clear answers to, even before signing the tenancy agreement document. These may include;

Rent and Bills payments

Ensure you fully understand on how and when you are meant to pay your rent and bills. Also, ask for clarifications whether bills (such as water, electricity, Wi-Fi, etc.) are included in the rent or not. In some occasions, tenants are required to pay for council tax unless they reside in multiple occupations (HMO). In this case, it is the landlord’s liability to pay the council tax.

Issuing of notices

In your tenancy agreement, there must be a clause, stating how much time you need to issue a notice, prior to your tenancy termination. Note that this clause is essential as failure to abide by it, you may end up paying your rent for unplanned period. 

Deposits

While moving into a new house or apartment, you are required to pay a set amount of money, also known as your tenancy deposit. However, this amount is refundable upon termination of your tenancy contract, if you’ve obliged to the tenancy regulations. This includes leaving the house in order, clean, well maintained, and paying your rent on time. On the tenancy agreement, all the conditions should be stated, regarding on how and when you are to receive a refund of your tenancy deposit. 

Decorating and repairs

In many occasions, as a tenant, you are not allowed to have any permanent decorations, modifications and repairs to your house, unless with special permission from your landlord. Also, in case there is a need for minor or major repairs, who’s responsible?

Subletting

Well, this varies from one landlord to another. In some cases, never at any time should you let out your rental house without your landlords’ notice. In the tenancy agreement, you can find this information, with the possible consequences (fines or legal action) your landlord may take against you.

Making changes

Within your stay, you may opt to have a review on the already signed tenancy agreement with your landlord. In this case, is it possible or once you have signed the document, it’s a closed deal?

Special clauses

This clause aims at looking at specific issues that your landlord may be against, such as, smoking, keeping pets, cleanliness, loud music, etc. Ensure you read through this segment to avoid any disputes later, either with your landlord or other tenants.

Moving into a “new” home can be exciting to some people, but all in all, do not make a rash decision while signing your tenancy agreement. You may request for more time from your landlord, to carefully scrutinise every detail included in the agreement. Remember, the tenancy agreement is the key part of your tenancy, stating your privileges and expectations as a tenant.

 


Get in touch with us

It can be devastating to get the call from your agent to say your buyers have pulled out. This article offers a helpful insight into what you can do to get your move back on track.

From the very first decision that you make about selling your home, you could be on the wrong path. Those early choices can have a negative impact on your experience and the price that you sell for. Get it right from the outset with these useful tips.

Technology is a part of our everyday lives, but what role does it play in the property industry? This article highlights the various ways that technology and AI can help you find your next home.

Accepting an offer on your property is very exciting, but it is only the middle of the process. This article shares ways that you can ensure the legal process is smooth when there is a chain of connected properties so that you can be sure to get to moving day.