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Assured & Shorthold Tenancies
Assured and Assured Shorthold ('Shorthold') tenancies were introduced by the Housing Act 1988 in England and Wales, and the Housing Act (Scotland) Act 1988 in Scotland; these came into effect from 15 January 1989. From 28 February 1997, following changes in the Housing Act 1996 for England and Wales, all lettings are shorthold unless specified as being assured.
Full market rent is charged for both assured and shorthold tenancies. Rents for an assured tenancy can be reviewed by the Rent Officer and grounds for possession are limited. With a shorthold tenancy it is possible for the landlord to gain possession six months after the beginning of a tenancy, subject to giving the tenant two months notice.
Statutory tenancy deposit schemes apply to all shorthold tenancies, where a deposit is taken, after 6 April 2007 in England and Wales.
The government department for Communities and Local Government publishes two leaflets on its website about assured and shorthold tenancies, one for landlords and one for tenants: Guide for Landlords and Guide for Tenants.
The Scottish Executive publishes similiar guides for tenants and landlords: click here for more information.
Please remember, renting or letting a property involves serious legal obligations and if you have the slightest doubt about what you are doing then you should consider taking specialist advice from a solicitor or suitably qualified property professional. These notes are offered as a general guide only and do not constitute legal or financial advice.
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