Securing a tenancy agreement is an essential part of acquiring a rental property. However, it is equally important for tenants to understand their rights concerning security of tenure. Security of tenure refers to the legal protection extended to tenants against unjust evictions by landlords.
Below are ten things every tenant should know about tenancy agreement security of tenure:
1. Security of tenure is a legal right: Under the law, tenants have a right to security of tenure, which means landlords cannot evict them unjustly.
2. Periodic tenancies entitle tenants to security of tenure: Tenancy agreements typically include fixed-term and periodic tenancies. Periodic tenancies are often referred to as rolling contracts, and tenants are entitled to security of tenure under these types of agreements.
3. Fixed-term tenancies may limit security of tenure: Fixed-term tenancies end at the end of the specified period, and tenants may not be entitled to security of tenure beyond that date.
4. Landlords must follow legal eviction procedures: In the event that a landlord wants to evict a tenant, they must follow the legal procedures set out in the relevant legislation.
5. Evictions must have a legal reason: Landlords cannot evict tenants without a valid reason. Valid reasons include non-payment of rent, damage to the property, or breach of the tenancy agreement.
6. Notice periods must be given: Where a landlord wishes to end a tenancy, they must give adequate notice. In the UK, notice periods are at least four weeks for a tenancy of less than two years and six months for tenancies longer than two years.
7. Tenants may be eligible for compensation for an unjust eviction: If a tenant is evicted from their rental property unjustly, they may be eligible for compensation.
8. Tenants can challenge an eviction: If a tenant believes they have been unjustly evicted, they can challenge the eviction in court.
9. Security of tenure is transferable: If a tenant holds a periodic tenancy agreement, they have the right to transfer the agreement to a new property.
10. Landlords can extend tenancies: Under the UK law, landlords can extend tenancies to provide tenants with greater security of tenure.
In conclusion, tenants must understand their rights regarding tenancy agreement security of tenure. Tenants can take steps to protect themselves against unjust evictions, including understanding legal procedures, notice periods, and challenging evictions. As a professional, we hope this article provides helpful insights for tenants.