Understand your tenants’ rights and be aware of them
As a landlord, it is important for you to know your tenants' rights as well as you know your own responsibilities. Managing a portfolio effectively means undertaking your duties as a landlord, and ensuring that your tenants' rights are being upheld and adhered to. This includes understanding aspects like the tenancy agreement and the notice period required for various actions.
The expert team at AST Assistance has the extensive experience needed to help you to understand your tenants' rights and why you must be aware of them, and provide tailored advice on how to prepare yourself for certain circumstances. Whether you're dealing with a secure tenancy or a fixed-term tenancy, we can guide you through the complexities.
To receive bespoke advice from property and tenancy experts, speak to the team at AST Assistance. We will explain and guide you through tenancy rights laws and your obligations so that you know your duties and how to properly manage a property. This includes advice on issues like when a tenant must pay rent and what to do when the tenancy ends.
Call us on 01706 619 954, email info@ast-assistance.com, or fill in our online form to request a call back.
How we can help
There are a number of vital tenants' rights which must be protected. Failure to do so can be a violation of the law, which can lead to financial legal penalties. Property law and tenants' rights change often, so it is essential that you stay on top of changes. This is the best way to remain compliant and fulfil your duties, whether you are a private landlord or part of a housing association.
AST Assistance has helped countless landlords manage tenants' rights, so that even in complicated tenancy situations, our team of property specialists can be at your side to guide you through your options. This includes understanding different types of tenancies, such as fixed term and secure tenancies, and how these affect your responsibilities.
Not only will we be at your side to manage your tenants' rights, but we will also use our expertise to ensure you can undertake your activities in a streamlined and stress-free manner. Whether you need to handle council tax issues or ensure that tenants pay rent directly to you, we provide comprehensive support.
You will learn best practices for effectively managing your portfolio, and acquire expert guidance to understand your full responsibilities. The team gives advice tailored for your circumstances, so if you are looking for industry-leading guidance, get in touch with us today.
FAQs
What are tenants’ rights?
Tenants have a number of rights that are protected by law. The most significant include:
- Living in a safe property of a good standard
- Having their tenancy deposit protected during the tenancy, then returned post-tenancy
- Living undisturbed
- Knowing you as their landlord
- Obtaining an Energy Performance Certificate
- Questioning unreasonable fees
It is critical that the conditions within any assured shorthold tenancy agreement are fair and legally compliant. When dealing with a fixed-term tenancy, for example, the terms must be clearly outlined.
Once the tenancy begins, you must provide your tenant with a copy of the “How to Rent” guide (if the property is in England). This guide outlines the responsibilities of both landlords and tenants in a tenancy, including a checklist on the procedures for starting and ending the tenancy.
What are tenants' rights with increased rent?
One of the most common queries involving the rights of tenants is whether they must accept increased rent. In order to increase rent, landlords must follow procedures that depend on the type of tenancy.
The rules depend on whether your property houses an assured shorthold tenant, assured tenant, protected tenant, an occupier with basic protection, or an excluded occupier. If you wish to increase your property rent, you should first seek to understand your tenants’ rights by speaking to property law experts, such as the ones at AST Assistance.
What happens at the end of a fixed-term tenancy?
When a fixed-term tenancy ends, both landlords and tenants have specific rights and responsibilities. The tenancy can either be renewed for another fixed term, continue as a periodic tenancy, or be terminated. The landlord must provide the appropriate notice period if they wish to end the tenancy. It's also crucial to handle the return of the tenancy deposit correctly.
What is a holding deposit and how should it be handled?
A holding deposit is a payment made by a tenant to secure a property before the tenancy agreement is signed. This deposit is typically deducted from the first month's rent or tenancy deposit. Landlords must handle this deposit correctly to avoid legal issues.
Who is responsible for paying council tax?
Generally, tenants are responsible for paying council tax if they live in a private rental property or a housing association property. However, the landlord must ensure that this responsibility is clearly outlined in the tenancy agreement to avoid any disputes.
How do I manage issues with other tenants in a shared property?
Managing a property with multiple tenants can present unique challenges. It's essential to address issues promptly and fairly, to ensure that all tenants' rights are respected. This includes managing shared responsibilities, like cleaning common areas and paying shared bills. Communicating clearly and having a well-drafted tenancy agreement can help manage these issues effectively.
What are the landlord's responsibilities in a secure tenancy?
In a secure tenancy, the landlord must ensure the property is safe and habitable, conduct necessary repairs, and respect the tenant's right to live undisturbed. Understanding the specific obligations and rights under a secure tenancy is essential for proper property management.
Get in touch
If you encounter an issue with tenants’ rights, or are looking to make a decision involving the tenancy but want to ensure you stay legally compliant, get in touch with the specialists at AST Assistance. Receive tailored advice today by calling us at 01706 619 954, emailing info@ast-assistance.com, or filling in our online form to request a call back.
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