Basic priciples of an assured shorthold tenancy

An Assured Shorthold Tenancy is essentially just an agreement permitting a tenant to occupy a property as their own home for the term of the agreement. The tenant agrees to pay the rent agreed and to return the property and the landlords fixtures and fittings in the same condition (allowing for reasonable wear and tear) at the end of the Tenancy.

The landlord is responsible for maintaining the fabric of the property and services to the property. They will permit the tenant to live in peace.

The detailed terms and conditions of the tenancy agreement may specify certain restrictions such as

• preventing the tenant from decorating or otherwise altering the property
• preventing the tenant from changing gas/electricity supplier or tarrifs
• clarify access rights for the landlord to inspect the property during the tenancy or carry out viewings for potential tenants towards the end of the tenancy