About Our Tenancies

All of our tenancies are what is known as Assured Shorthold Tenancies (AST) and are the most common type of tenancy used in the UK.  The AST as we know it will change in May 2026 with the introduction of the Renter Right Act (but at the time of writing the Government had not published the New Model Tenancy).  All Tenancies will become periodic and no longer fixed.  The terms of the tenancy, such as the responsibilities of the landlord and tenant, are detailed below to help you understand both parties obligation.  

Tenancy Deposits

This will explain where your tenancy deposit is held, what it is used for and how it is repaid to you when your tenancy comes to an end.

Ending A Tenancy

To end a tenancy, it is important that it is ended in the legal framework that is designed for the tenancy and in accordance with the tenancy contract,  this page we explains how a tenancy is ended.........

FAQ's

It is impossible to answer all the questions associated with tenancies and rental properties but we have created a Frequently Asked Question section which may help.

Applying For A Tenancy

If you would like to apply for one of our tenancies, this page will explain all you need to know.........

During The Tenancy

This section will help you understand your tenancy, what the tenancy agreement means and what yours and our responsibilities are.

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Repairs & Maintenance

We explain the process relating to repairs and maintenance issues, the importance of reporting issues to us and what your responsibility is in relation to minor repairs......

About our tenancies

A Tenancy is a legal relationship between a landlord and a tenant, in which the tenant has the right to occupy a specific property in exchange for rent.

The rights and responsibilities of the landlord and tenant are typically governed by the tenancy agreement, and are specified in the tenancy agreement. It is important to know the nature of tenancy agreement and laws to have clear understanding of rights and responsibilities of both parties and we encourage all tenants to read and understand their tenancy agreement.

When you rent one of our properties, your tenancy is governed by an Assured Tenancy Agreement (AST).
This is a legally binding contract between you (the tenant) and us (the landlord).

This page highlights the key points of the agreement, explains what they mean in everyday terms, and sets out our responsibilities and yours.  The full Tenancy Agreement remains the legal document, but this page is here to help you understand it clearly.

What Is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy?

An Assured Tenancy is the most common form of residential tenancy in England and Wales.

In simple terms, it means:

  • You have the legal right to live in the property

  • We cannot enter the property without proper notice (except in emergencies)

  • Rent, notice periods, and responsibilities are clearly defined

  • Both parties are protected by law

Our tenancy agreements are contractual periodic tenancies, meaning they run on a month-to-month basis rather than having a fixed end date.

Rent and Payments

As a tenant, you agree to:

  • Pay rent monthly in advance

  • Pay on the agreed due date

  • Use an agreed payment method (usually standing order)

Paying rent on time is one of the most important obligations under the tenancy.

Your Deposit

  • A tenancy deposit is required

  • It is protected in a Government-approved tenancy deposit scheme

  • You will receive the legally required Prescribed Information

The deposit is security against things like:

  • Unpaid rent

  • Damage beyond fair wear and tear

  • Failure to return the property in a reasonable condition

Your Responsibilities as a Tenant

Under the AST, you are responsible for:

  • Paying rent on time and in full

  • Keeping the property reasonably clean and ventilated

  • Looking after the property and avoiding damage

  • Promptly reporting repairs or maintenance issues

  • Allowing reasonable access for inspections or repairs (with notice)

  • Returning the property in a clean condition at the end of the tenancy
    (allowing for normal wear and tear)

You must not:

  • Cause damage to the property

  • Carry out alterations without written permission

  • Use the property for unlawful purposes

Our Responsibilities as Your Landlord

We are legally responsible for:

  • Maintaining the structure and exterior of the property

  • Ensuring gas, electrical, and fire safety compliance

  • Providing a safe and habitable home

  • Carrying out necessary repairs within reasonable timescales

  • Respecting your right to quiet enjoyment of the property

This means we will not enter the property without notice, except in genuine emergencies.

Repairs and Maintenance

Repairs and maintenance issues should be reported as soon as they arise.

  • All repair requests must be submitted in writing using our designated reporting method

  • We are unable to accept verbal repair reports

  • Written reports ensure issues are properly logged and dealt with efficiently

Once reported:

  • We will assess the issue and arrange repairs where they are our responsibility

  • Emergency repairs will be prioritised

If a repair issue is not reported promptly, and the delay results in the problem becoming worse (for example, an unreported leak causing further damage), the tenant may be held responsible for any additional damage or remedial work that could reasonably have been avoided.

Repairs required as a result of misuse, neglect, or failure to report issues may be the tenant’s responsibility.

Clear communication helps keep the property safe, compliant, and comfortable for everyone.

Anti-Social Behaviour

Anti-Social Behaviour

By signing the Tenancy Agreement, the Tenant agrees that neither they, nor any member of their household, nor any visitor to the Property shall engage in any behaviour which causes or is capable of causing nuisance, annoyance, harassment, alarm, or distress to any person residing in, visiting, or lawfully engaged in activity in the locality of the Property.

This includes, but is not limited to:

  • Excessive noise (including loud music, shouting, or disturbance) particularly during unsociable hours

  • Verbal abuse, intimidation, harassment, or threatening behaviour

  • Criminal, illegal, or immoral activity

  • Damage to property belonging to the Landlord, neighbours, or third parties

  • Use of the Property in a manner that interferes with the peace, comfort, or convenience of others

The Tenant shall take reasonable steps to ensure that visitors to the Property do not engage in anti-social behaviour.

Any breach of this clause shall be treated as a serious breach of the tenancy agreement and may result in enforcement action, including seeking possession of the Property in accordance with statutory provisions

A Legally Binding Agreement

Once signed, the AST:

  • Is legally enforceable

  • Protects both tenant and landlord

  • Sets out rights, responsibilities, and procedures clearly

We strongly encourage all tenants to read the full agreement and ask questions if anything is unclear.

Ending the Tenancy

If you wish to leave:

  • You must give at least two calendar month’s written notice in writing.

  • Notice must expire at the end of a rental period

If we seek possession:

  • We can only do so in accordance with the law

  • Proper notice and legal procedures will always be followed

Rent Reviews

We carry out an annual review of rental rates to ensure they remain fair, competitive, and aligned with current market conditions. The aim of this process is to balance affordability for tenants with the ongoing costs of maintaining and managing our properties.

Rent reviews take place each January, with any agreed changes normally implemented from 4 April.

When reviewing rent, we consider a range of factors, including:

  • Comparable rental rates in the local area

  • UK inflation levels

  • Rising costs associated with property ownership and funding

Rental increases will always reflect current UK inflation, and in some cases may be higher where additional cost pressures apply.

We recognise that rent increases can be a concern, and we approach all reviews carefully and responsibly. Our intention is to keep rents reasonable, transparent, and in line with market conditions, while continuing to provide well-maintained and compliant homes.

Where a rent increase is proposed, tenants will always be notified in writing in advance of any change taking effect. We believe open communication is essential to maintaining a positive and professional landlord–tenant relationship.

Ending a Tenancy

Ending a tenancy refers to the process by which a rental agreement is formally brought to an end. This can occur in a number of ways, depending on the circumstances and the notice requirements set out in the tenancy agreement and the law.

We have a dedicated page that explains:

  • How a tenancy may be ended by either the tenant or the landlord

  • The notice periods required in each case

  • The correct process that must be followed

We recommend reviewing this information carefully to ensure any tenancy is ended properly and in accordance with the terms of the agreement.

Is my tenancy a legally binding contract?

Yes.
Once signed, your Assured Shorthold Tenancy Agreement (AST) is a legally binding contract between you and us as the landlord. Both parties must comply with its terms, and it is enforceable under the law of England and Wales.

What type of tenancy do I have?

You have a contractual monthly periodic tenancy.
This means your tenancy runs from month to month rather than having a fixed end date, and it continues until ended correctly by either party in line with the agreement and the law.

When does my tenancy start and end?

Your tenancy:

  • Starts on the agreed commencement date

  • Has no fixed end date

  • Continues automatically each month unless proper notice is given

When is my rent due?

Rent is:

  • Payable monthly in advance

  • Due on the agreed rent due date

  • Paid by standing order or another agreed electronic method

Paying rent on time is one of your key obligations under the tenancy.

What happens if I pay my rent late?

Late or missed rent payments may:

  • Put you in breach of your tenancy agreement

  • Result in arrears being pursued

  • Ultimately lead to legal action if not resolved

If you are experiencing difficulties, you should contact us as early as possible.

Is my deposit protected?

Yes.
Your deposit is protected in a Government-authorised tenancy deposit scheme, and you will be provided with the legally required Prescribed Information.

What is my deposit used for?

Your deposit may be used at the end of the tenancy to cover:

  • Unpaid rent

  • Damage beyond fair wear and tear

  • Cleaning required to return the property to an acceptable condition

What are my responsibilities as a tenant?

You are responsible for:

  • Paying rent on time

  • Keeping the property reasonably clean and ventilated

  • Looking after the property and avoiding damage

  • Promptly reporting repairs or maintenance issues

  • Returning the property in a clean condition at the end of the tenancy
    (allowing for fair wear and tear)

What counts as fair wear and tear?

Fair wear and tear refers to reasonable deterioration caused by normal day-to-day use over time.
It does not include damage caused by neglect, misuse, or failure to report issues promptly.

Who is responsible for repairs?

  • We are responsible for the structure and exterior of the property and statutory safety requirements

  • You must report issues promptly so repairs can be arranged

  • Damage caused by misuse or neglect may be your responsibility

Can the landlord enter the property?

Yes — but only:

  • With reasonable notice

  • For inspections, repairs, or maintenance

  • Or immediately in genuine emergencies or security concerns

We fully respect your right to quiet enjoyment of the property.

Can I end my tenancy?

Yes.
You may end the tenancy by giving:

  • At least one calendar month’s written notice

  • Notice must expire at the end of a rental period

Can the landlord ask me to leave?

Possession can only be sought:

  • In accordance with the law

  • Using the correct legal process

  • With the appropriate notice

We cannot remove a tenant without following statutory procedures.

What should I do if I don’t understand something in my agreement?

Please contact us.
We are happy to explain any part of the tenancy and believe that clear communication helps create successful, long-term tenancies.