What Is An Assured Shorthold Tenancy?

Exploring assured shorthold tenancies: a guide for landlords

In the realm of property rentals in England and Wales, the Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) stands out as the most common type of agreement between landlords and tenants. But what exactly is an assured shorthold tenancy? And what does it entail for those looking to sell their property? We aim to shed light on ASTs, offering insights primarily for sellers who are considering the fast-track route of selling a tenanted property for cash. Understanding the specifics of an assured shorthold tenancy is crucial for both landlords and tenants to ensure that their rights and responsibilities are clearly defined and protected.

What is an assured shorthold tenancy?

An assured shorthold tenancy (AST) is a legal agreement that sets out the terms and conditions between a landlord and tenant for the rental of residential property. It provides tenants with a guarantee of occupancy for a certain period, known as the fixed term. During this fixed term, the tenant has the right to occupy the property while paying rent to the landlord. 

The Housing Act 1988 introduced the assured shorthold tenancy agreement, which became the default residential tenancy agreement in the Housing Act 1996. One of the key features of an assured shorthold tenancy is that it allows landlords to regain possession of their property (a Section 21 notice – soon to be abolished) after the fixed term ends, provided they give the tenant proper notice. 

How long is an assured shorthold tenancy agreement? 

The length of an assured shorthold tenancy agreement can vary. Initially, it must be for a minimum of six months, but it can be set for any period. After the initial fixed term, unless a new fixed term is agreed upon, the tenancy automatically becomes a periodic tenancy, rolling on a week-by-week or month-by-month basis, depending on how the rent is paid. This provides flexibility for both parties, although the same eviction and notice procedures apply. Understanding the specifics of an assured shorthold tenancy is crucial for both landlords and tenants to ensure that their rights and responsibilities are clearly defined and protected.

Six reasons why landlords need an assured shorthold tenancy

A landlord renting out their property needs an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement to create a clear, legally binding contract between themselves and their tenant. 

1. Legal protection: An AST provides a legal framework that protects both the landlord and the tenant. For landlords, it ensures they have a legal right to regain possession of their property at the end of the agreed term, subject to following the correct procedures, such as providing appropriate notice. For tenants it guarantees certain rights of occupation. 

2. Clarity and certainty: The AST sets out the obligations of the tenant and the landlord, reducing the potential for misunderstandings and disputes. It covers aspects such as rent payments, maintenance responsibilities, and rules regarding subletting or alterations to the property.

3. Regaining possession: The AST allows landlords to regain possession of their property after the fixed term has ended, using a Section 21 notice, without needing to provide a reason. This flexibility is crucial for landlords who may need to sell the property or move back in.

4. Rent and deposits: The agreement specifies the rent amount, payment intervals, and details regarding the deposit. This helps in ensuring that financial aspects are managed transparently, and the deposit is protected in a Government-approved scheme.

5. Setting terms: Landlords can set specific terms within the AST, such as no pets or no smoking in the property, helping to protect the condition of their investment.

6. Dispute resolution: Should disputes arise, the AST serves as a reference point for resolving issues, potentially avoiding costly legal battles.

In summary, an AST is a fundamental tool for landlords and tenants in the UK, providing a secure legal foundation for renting out property, protecting landlord’s rights, and setting clear expectations for the tenancy. 

AST obligations and rights for tenants and landlords

An AST also sets out the legal obligations and rights of both landlords and tenants. For landlords, it includes the right to receive rent on time and for the property to be kept in good condition. For tenants, it ensures the right to live in the property undisturbed and for the property to be maintained to a safe and habitable standard. Get specialist advice on tenancy agreements from the National Residential Landlord’s Association.  

Advantages of selling a tenanted property for cash

Selling a property with tenants can be complex, but it also offers unique advantages, especially when working with a cash house buyer like SellHouseFast.co.uk. Here are a few benefits:

Continuity. Selling to cash buyers means the tenancy can continue uninterrupted, which is beneficial for both the seller and the tenant.

Speed. SellHouseFast.co.uk specialises in quick transactions, meaning you can sell your house fast without the delays often associated with traditional sales.

Simplicity. Selling your house for cash simplifies the process, removing the need for extensive property viewings and negotiations.

The UK Government also has advice on shorthold tenancy agreements.

Why Choose SellHouseFast.co.uk?

For sellers, choosing SellHouseFast.co.uk offers a streamlined, hassle-free way to sell properties for cash – even those with an assured shorthold tenancy in place. Here’s why:

We buy any house. Regardless of your property’s condition or your circumstances, SellHouseFast.co.uk is ready to make a fair cash offer.

Cash house buyers. We ensure a quick and secure transaction, as we are cash buyers freeing you from the uncertainties of the open market.

Selling a tenanted property. We understand the nuances of selling tenanted properties and work with you to ensure a smooth transition for everyone involved.

We are cash house buyers

Understanding what an assured shorthold tenancy is and the implications for selling your house fast is crucial. Whether you’re selling a tenanted property or simply wish to unlock the value of your asset quickly, SellHouseFast.co.uk provides a reliable, efficient solution. 

If you’re a landlord looking to sell a property with an assured shorthold tenancy, consider the advantages of working with SellHouseFast.co.uk. Our expertise in buying tenanted properties for cash means you can achieve a fast, fair, and fuss-free sale. Visit SellHouseFast.co.uk and find out how we can help you sell your house fast with confidence and ease. We buy any house. We know that selling a house can be complicated and stressful, which is why SellHouseFast.co.uk is committed to making the process fast, convenient and totally transparent.

Here’s how it works:

1. Tell us about your house: Give us some basic details about your property using our simple online form. You can also call SellHouseFast.co.uk if you’d prefer, for some hands-on help.
2. Get your cash offer: As soon as you tell us the details, our friendly experts will get to work. They’ll provide you with a competitive cash offer immediately. There is no obligation to accept the offer, and it’s completely free.
3. Sit back, relax, and let us handle things: If you’re happy with the cash offer, SellHouseFast.co.uk will take care of everything else. It really is that simple.

Get your free cash offer in a matter of minutes — wherever you are, whatever the condition of your property, with SellHouseFast.co.uk.