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Avoiding legal action

Start out on the right track and you are less likely to reach the position where legal action has to be taken. It is extremely important that rights and obligations of the landlord and tenant are explained clearly in the tenancy agreement. Most landlords and tenants get alone fine and the majority of tenancies are ended amicably and voluntarily by the tenant when it is time to move on.

You may need to consider the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) guidance on unfair terms and tenancy agreements, which says that landlords and agents should deal fairly with tenants. A copy of the guidance can be ordered from E.C. Logistics, Swallowfield Way, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 1DW. A standard tenancy agreement should ensure that its terms are not too balanced in favour of the landlord and it does not reduce the tenant’s legal rights. See contract agreement.

Responsible as a landlord

  • Any obligations you have agreed with the terms of the tenancy agreement.
  • Repair
  • Baths, sinks, basins and other sanitary installations
  • Healing and hot water installations
  • The structure and exterior of the property
  • Disrepair would affect the tenant

Responsible as a Tenant

  • Not to be evicted without a possession order from the court
  • The right to live at the property without being harassed by the landlord. You are not able to enter the premises without the tenant’s permission
  • Any rights that are negotiated in the tenancy agreement