Shorthold tenancies

Tenant rights and responsibilities

When you rent a property as a tenant, you would have entered into a contract with the landlord that sets out each side’s rights and responsibilities.

The type of tenancy agreement that you have with your landlord will affect your legal rights.

There are a number of different tenancy agreements, and most will state clearly what type they are. Most tenancies entered into on or after 28 February 1997 in England and Wales, will be assured shorthold tenancies. This type of tenancy have the following characteristics:

• The tenants must be individuals.

• The tenants are free to use the property as their own (meaning that other people in particular the landlord aren’t).

• The property must be the main home for at least one of the tenants.

An assured shorthold tenancy gives your certain legal rights, but it can be difficult understanding where you stand when it comes to deposits and notice periods to terminate the tenancy.

Which? Legal can help

Our team of specialist advisers can provide you with expert legal advice or answer any questions you have about your shorthold tenancy. 

They will advise you on your legal rights as a tenant, and can guide you through the necessary steps to resolve a landlord dispute.