Terminating an Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement: What you need to know
As a tenant, you might find that your current living situation is no longer suitable for your needs. When this happens, you might want to terminate your tenancy agreement. However, before you do so, it is important that you understand the process involved, particularly if you have an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement.
An AST is the most common type of tenancy agreement in the UK, and it gives tenants the right to live in a property for a fixed period of time. If you have an AST agreement, you can terminate it in one of two ways: by giving notice or by mutual agreement.
Giving Notice
If you want to leave your rented property before the end of your tenancy agreement, you will need to give your landlord notice. The notice period you need to give will depend on the terms of your agreement. Most ASTs require tenants to give at least one month`s notice, but some agreements may require longer notice periods.
When giving notice, you should also make sure that you are following any other requirements set out in your agreement, such as returning the keys or leaving the property in a clean and tidy condition.
If you are unsure of the notice period required or the steps you need to take to terminate your AST, you should seek advice from your landlord or a legal professional.
Mutual Agreement
In some cases, you may be able to terminate your AST by mutual agreement with your landlord. This can happen if both parties agree to end the tenancy early, or if the landlord agrees to release you from your tenancy agreement.
If you are trying to terminate your AST by mutual agreement, make sure that you have a written agreement in place that sets out the terms of the agreement. This agreement should be signed by both parties and should include details such as the date the tenancy will end and any conditions that need to be met before the agreement can be terminated.
Ending an AST can be a complex process, and it is important that you understand your rights and obligations as a tenant before you take any action. If you are unsure about the process or are experiencing any difficulties with your landlord, seek advice from a legal professional or a tenant`s rights organisation.
In summary, if you are thinking about terminating an AST agreement, make sure that you understand the notice periods required and any other conditions set out in your agreement. Consider seeking legal advice or support from a tenant`s rights organisation to ensure that you are following the correct process and protecting your rights as a tenant.