Ending a Shared Tenancy Agreement: A Step-by-Step Guide for Renters
Living in a shared housing arrangement can be an affordable and sociable experience. However, circumstances may arise that can make it necessary to end a shared tenancy agreement. Whether it’s because of a dispute or a change in personal circumstances, it’s important to understand the legal requirements and steps involved in ending a shared tenancy agreement.
Here is a step-by-step guide for renters who need to end a shared tenancy agreement.
Check the Terms of the Tenancy Agreement
The first step is to check the terms of the tenancy agreement. Most shared tenancy agreements are periodic, which means they are renewed monthly or weekly. If this is the case, you can give notice to end the tenancy at any time. However, if your agreement has a fixed term, such as six months or a year, you may need to wait until the end of the fixed term before giving notice.
Give Proper Notice
Once you have determined when you can give notice, you will need to provide written notice to your landlord or letting agent. Your notice should include the date you intend to leave and your forwarding address. You will need to give at least one month`s notice if your tenancy is periodic, or the notice period specified in your agreement if it`s fixed-term.
Joint Notice
If you are sharing the tenancy with other tenants, you may all need to provide notice. If you are all moving out at the same time, you can provide a joint notice. However, if some tenants are staying and others are leaving, you will need to provide separate notices.
Check for Deposits
Most shared tenancy agreements require a deposit to be paid at the start of the tenancy. Before you leave, you will need to check the terms of your deposit scheme. If you are in a government-backed scheme, you will need to ask for your deposit back at the end of the tenancy. If you are in a private scheme, you will need to check with your landlord to arrange the return of your deposit.
Inspections
Your landlord or letting agent may want to inspect the property before you leave. If this is the case, you will need to make arrangements to be present during the inspection. Make sure that you are ready to hand over the keys and that the property is clean and ready for the next tenant.
Final Utility Bills
Before you leave, make sure that all utility bills are up-to-date. You will need to provide final meter readings and settle any outstanding balances. Make sure that you take a final reading and inform your energy supplier of your move. You may also need to inform your water and council tax supplier of your move.
In conclusion, ending a shared tenancy agreement requires careful planning and communication with your landlord or letting agent. By following the steps outlined above, you will ensure that you end your tenancy smoothly and legally. Remember, always check the terms of your tenancy agreement and seek professional advice if you are unsure about anything.
