As the Covid-19 pandemic continues to affect almost every aspect of our daily lives, the rental market is not immune to the changes and challenges brought about by the outbreak. The UK government has issued advice and guidelines for landlords and tenants during this time, including updates to the Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) agreement.
An AST is a type of rental agreement frequently used in the UK for residential properties. It outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy, including the rights and responsibilities of both the landlord and tenant. With the pandemic still ongoing, there are several provisions that should be considered when creating or renewing an AST agreement.
Firstly, landlords must ensure that they are fully aware of their responsibilities when it comes to maintaining the property. The government advises that landlords should continue to carry out regular maintenance and repairs during this time, as well as ensuring that all necessary safety checks are conducted. This includes ensuring that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order, and that any gas or electrical appliances provided by the landlord are regularly serviced and safe to use.
In addition, landlords should be aware of the financial challenges that tenants may be facing due to Covid-19. It is recommended that landlords are flexible and understanding with tenants who are struggling to pay their rent, and they should communicate openly and honestly with them about any arrears. It is also worth considering whether rent reductions or payment plans could be offered to help tenants during this time.
For tenants, it is important to be aware of their rights and responsibilities under the AST agreement. They should take care to read and understand the terms of the agreement, and raise any questions or concerns with the landlord before signing. Tenants should also continue to pay their rent on time and communicate openly with their landlord if they are experiencing financial difficulties.
In terms of specific provisions related to Covid-19, there are several that may be included in an AST agreement. These could include provisions related to self-isolation or quarantine, such as allowing tenants to terminate the agreement early if they need to self-isolate. There may also be provisions related to cleaning and hygiene, such as requiring tenants to clean and disinfect the property regularly.
Overall, it is essential that landlords and tenants work together during this challenging time to ensure that AST agreements are updated and reflective of the current situation. By being proactive and flexible, both parties can help to mitigate the impact of Covid-19 on the rental market and ensure that everyone is supported and protected.