As a potential tenant, the thought of signing a tenancy agreement form can be daunting. However, it is important to understand that this document serves to protect both the landlord and the tenant in the rental agreement.
One type of tenancy agreement form that you may come across is the AST (Assured Shorthold Tenancy) agreement form. This is a common form used for residential rentals in England and Wales.
So, what exactly does an AST agreement form entail?
Firstly, it outlines the details of the rental property such as the address, the start and end date of the tenancy, and the amount of rent to be paid as well as the payment intervals. It also includes the details of the landlord and the tenant(s) involved.
The agreement form will also detail the responsibilities of both the landlord and the tenant. For instance, the landlord is responsible for ensuring that the property is safe to live in and that all necessary repairs are carried out. The tenant, on the other hand, is responsible for keeping the property clean and tidy and reporting any necessary repairs to the landlord.
It is essential to thoroughly read through the AST agreement form to ensure that you understand all terms and conditions before signing it. If there are any clauses that you do not agree with, it is important to discuss them with the landlord to see if they can be amended.
In addition, as a tenant, it is important to note that if you sign an AST agreement form, you will be required to provide a deposit. The deposit serves as a form of security for the landlord in case any damages are caused by the tenant during the tenancy. It is important to ensure that the deposit is placed in a government-approved tenancy deposit scheme.
In conclusion, an AST tenancy agreement form is an important document that outlines the terms and conditions of a residential rental agreement. Reading and understanding the form is crucial to ensure that both the landlord and tenant are protected throughout the tenancy. If you have any queries or concerns, it is advisable to discuss them with the landlord before signing the agreement form.