What is an assured short hold tenancy?

An assured shorthold tenancy (AST) is a type of tenancy agreement commonly used in the UK for private residential properties. It is a legal agreement between a landlord and tenant, which outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy.

Under an AST, the tenant has the right to live in the property for a fixed period of time, usually six or twelve months, and the landlord has the right to receive rent for that period. The agreement can be renewed at the end of the fixed term or can continue on a rolling basis if both parties agree.

An AST provides certain rights and responsibilities for both the landlord and the tenant. For example, the landlord must ensure that the property is safe, habitable, and free from hazards, while the tenant must pay rent on time and take care of the property.

At the end of the tenancy, the landlord has the right to evict the tenant if they have breached the terms of the agreement, such as failing to pay rent or causing damage to the property. However, the landlord must follow the proper legal process to do so, including serving the tenant with notice and obtaining a court order if necessary.

Overall, an AST provides a legal framework for both landlords and tenants, ensuring that both parties understand their rights and responsibilities.