Agreement for Letting a Furnished Dwelling House on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy: What to Know
If you`re a landlord looking to rent out your furnished property, it`s important to have a solid agreement in place to protect both yourself and your tenant. This is why an Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement is crucial. In this article, we`ll discuss everything you need to know about an agreement for letting a furnished dwelling house on an Assured Shorthold Tenancy.
What is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy?
An Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) is a legal agreement between a landlord and tenant. It`s the most common type of tenancy agreement in the UK and typically lasts for a minimum of 6 months, though it can be for longer periods of time. An AST gives the tenant the right to live in the property for the duration of the agreement and requires the landlord to provide a safe and habitable living environment.
What is a Furnished Dwelling House?
A furnished dwelling house is a property that is rented out with furniture already provided as part of the rental agreement. This can include anything from beds and sofas to kitchen appliances and utensils. When renting out a furnished property, it`s important to have a detailed inventory of all the items provided to avoid any disputes at the end of the tenancy.
Key Components of an AST Agreement for a Furnished Dwelling House
1. Rent Payment and Deposit: The AST agreement should include the amount of rent to be paid, how often it should be paid, and when it is due. Additionally, a deposit must be collected from the tenant and held in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.
2. Term of Tenancy: The agreement should specify how long the tenancy period is for, including the start and end dates.
3. Maintenance and Repairs: The landlord is responsible for maintaining the property in a good condition throughout the tenancy. The agreement should also state who is responsible for repairs and how they will be dealt with.
4. Tenant Obligations: The agreement should outline the tenant`s obligations, which include keeping the property in good condition, paying rent on time, and following any rules set out in the agreement.
5. Landlord Obligations: The agreement should also outline the landlord`s obligations, including providing a safe and habitable living environment, maintaining the property and furniture, and allowing the tenant to enjoy peaceful possession of the property.
Final Thoughts
A well-written AST agreement for a furnished dwelling house is key to ensuring a smooth rental experience for both the landlord and tenant. It`s important to seek legal advice when drafting the agreement to ensure that it complies with all relevant legislation and protects the rights of both parties. Remember to keep a detailed inventory of all furniture and appliances provided and have them checked and signed off by the tenant at the beginning and end of the tenancy. With a solid agreement in place, you can ensure a positive and stress-free rental experience.