Sunday, September 27, 2009

What Is A Tenancy Agreement?

By James L Harrison

Before letting a tenant to occupy your property, it is quite important to sign a proper tenancy agreement, as it sets out the limitations of tenants' rights as well as their obligations. Apart from limitations and obligations, terms, payments, rent amounts, deposits, payment methods, rights, notices, guarantor clauses, signature and witnesses are included in a tenancy agreement. Let us find out the details of this agreement.

A tenancy agreement clearly defines the rights and duties of both the parties. The most important component, of course, is the rent and monthly payments. Tenancy agreements also include payment schedule, rent, deposits, payment methods, rights, notices, guarantor clauses, signature, and witnesses to the contract. Following lines will give you a general overview of tenancy agreements and their importance.

Starting and finishing date of the agreement is mentioned in the terms, while the rent amount and its instalments are mentioned in Rent Amount & Payments section. For clarity, this amount is mentioned in figures as well as in words. The payment method is specified by the landlord in this agreement.

Usually, a long and comprehensive list of obligations is imposed on the tenants. However, most of the time, payment of rent, utility bills, TV license, banning of some alteration, property condition, leaving property in a clean state, and property inspection are some of the issues that are mentioned in the main clauses of the tenancy agreements. Under these obligations, the tenant is bound to pay rent on time. Moreover, if a third party pays rent on the tenants' behalf, it is accepted as a payment made by the tenant; however, that third party does not get any rights as tenants in any case.

The tenant is also bound to pay utility bills during the tenancy term, and the cost of any reconnection is also included in it. The tenant is also bound to pay the council tax and water cost under this agreement. Similarly, the tenancy agreement restricts tenants from making any alterations or additions in the property without the written consent of the landlord.

Tenancy agreements also state that a tenant is legally bound to pay the bills from his own money. If he is unable to pay the bills on time, the utility company might sever the connection. In that case, he will have to pay the reconnection fee. The municipal taxes levied on property, including council tax, are to be paid by the tenant.

Similarly, the tenant pays the water bills himself. Tenancy agreement allows the landlord to inspect his property after giving a proper notice to the tenant. They can agree on a time for this inspection. A tenant, on the other hand, cannot make any structural changes or keep pets or other animals in the house without informing the landlord.

If a tenant does not want to include any clause that he thinks can become difficult for him to follow, he can discuss it with the landlord and can tell him about the issues which are preventing him from accepting that particular clause. Tenancy Agreements often prove quite effective for landlords as well as for the tenants, as under such agreements, they both can realise their rights and obligations.

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