Any advice would be really appreciated!
I recently signed an assured shorthold tenancy agreement for my new flat, but I want to be sure I fully understand my rights and responsibilities as a tenant. I know I have to pay rent on time and keep the property in good condition, but what about repairs? Who’s responsible if something like the boiler breaks down? And what happens if I want to leave before my tenancy ends? Any advice would be really appreciated!
A lot of tenants don’t realize their rights under the assured shorthold tenancy, so it’s always good to be informed. Generally, landlords are responsible for structural repairs and keeping essential utilities like water, heating, and electricity in working order. However, tenants must report issues quickly and not cause damage beyond normal wear and tear. If your boiler breaks, it’s usually the landlord’s duty to fix it unless your contract states otherwise.
As for leaving early, it depends on whether you have a break clause in your agreement. If there’s no break clause, you may need to negotiate with your landlord or find a replacement tenant. You can read more about how assured shorthold tenancies work and what rights tenants have here: What is an Assured Shorthold Tenancy? All You Need to Know. It’s a great resource that breaks down everything in simple terms! the assured shorthold tenancy