Contracts
Type of Contract
The protection you have largely depends on your status as an occupier. An Assured Short Hold Tenancy Agreement is the most common.
These can be made for a specific period of time, for instance, one academic year, but they will not usually be made for a period of less than six months.
If you are sharing a house then you would normally be asked to sign a joint tenancy or a separate tenancy. If you sign a joint tenancy then you will all be responsible for each other's debts and damages.
If you have your own contract then if there are any discrepancies, the argument is between yourself and your landlord and should not involve your housemates.
Points to Note
- Rents must be agreed before the contract is signed since this is a binding agreement. Remember you can negotiate with the landlord over rents, opt out clauses etc. if you are not happy with the landlord's suggestions
- You cannot give notice during the period of the contract unless such a clause has been added. If you leave before the end of the fixed term then you (or your housemates) remain liable for the remaining rent
- Always try to get your contract checked - the Students Union Advice Centre
 will be happy to do this.
- Remember to get a copy of your contract!
- Landlords must comply with relevant legislation on Notice to Quit and Termination of Tenancies. A Notice to Quit also has to contain prescribed information. A Landlord cannot simply evict a tenant without a Court Order, which will be granted only on certain grounds. See your rights.
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