What is my tenancy
agreement all about?
When you agree to move into a new
place where you are paying rent you should receive a tenancy
agreement, where you and the landlord agree your rights and
responsibilities. The agreement protects you and the landlord, and
once signed it's a legally binding contract. Even if you do not
have a written agreement you still have basic rights as a
tenant.
The agreement should
contain:
- The type of agreement - check the type of tenancy, they are
usually Assured Shorthold tenancies running for a minimum of 6
months. (If you are unsure of your type of agreement visit your
Local Service Centre)
- The landlord's name and contact details
- Your name (tenants)
- Address of the property let
- Rules on rent and date of when it's payable
- Rent review arrangements
- Who is responsible to pay gas, electric, water and council tax
bills
- Amount of deposit and rent in advance payable
- How and when deposit is to be paid
- How repairs will be organised
- The date your tenancy ends or comes up for renewal
You do not have to sign the agreement immediately; you can take
it away to get advice at your Local Service Centre and Community
Links office. Warning - do not leave it too long, accommodation can
go quickly.
Help and Advice
If you do not know what type of agreement you have or you think
your agreement is unfair contact:
Housing Options Centre
3 Pragel Street
Plaistow
London
E13 9HB
Tel: 020 8430 2000
Email:
hsghoc@newham.gov.uk
A Housing Advisor will be able to help you if you book a
meeting.
Download this information as a handy fact
sheet.