An assured shorthold tenancy (AST) is the most common form of tenancy agreement used in the UK when renting out a property. It is a legally binding agreement between the landlord and the tenant, which outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy.

One of the most important aspects of the AST is the duration of the tenancy. This is the length of time that the tenant is legally entitled to occupy the property. The duration of the AST will be stated in the tenancy agreement and can vary depending on various factors such as the type of property, the landlord’s preferences, and the tenant’s requirements.

Standard durations

The standard duration of an AST is six months, although it can be longer or shorter. In certain cases, such as when the landlord is renting out a property for the first time, they may opt for a shorter duration to test out the tenant`s suitability before committing to a longer period.

On the other hand, some landlords prefer to offer longer tenancies of 12 months or more, which gives them greater security and reduces the likelihood of having to find a new tenant each year. Longer tenancies can also be beneficial for tenants who prefer more stability in their living arrangements.

Renewal

At the end of the AST, the tenancy can be renewed either on a fixed-term or periodic basis.

Fixed-term tenancies are renewed for a specific period, typically another six or 12 months. This means that the tenant is committed to staying in the property for the duration of the new fixed-term period. This can be beneficial for tenants who want to stay in the property for a longer period of time.

Periodic tenancies, on the other hand, are renewed on a rolling basis, typically every month. This means that the tenant can give notice to end the tenancy at any time, usually with one month’s notice.

Notice periods

When renewing an AST, it is important to be aware of the notice periods required by law. The notice period is the length of time that the landlord or tenant must give before ending the tenancy. The notice period is usually between one and two months, but it can be longer depending on the circumstances.

Conclusion

The duration of an assured shorthold tenancy agreement is an essential aspect of the agreement. It outlines the length of time that the tenant is legally entitled to occupy the property and sets out the renewal options available. Whether you are a landlord or a tenant, it is essential to understand the duration of the tenancy agreement and the renewal options available to ensure that you can plan your living arrangements effectively and efficiently.