Signing a contract

Agreements

1. Do you know what the contract means?
2. If so, what type of contract is it?
3. Have you been given a copy of the contract that you have signed for?
4. A contract is a legally binding document. When you have signed a contract you do not normally get the chance to change your mind.

A contract can be:

• written or verbal
• joint or individual

N.B. Insist on a written contract. Both parties will know what is expected of them and it is difficult for the owner/agent to add conditions as the tenancy progresses. A verbal contract is legally binding, however it is difficult to prove what was agreed.

Tenancies

Landlords and Agents will normally give you an Assured Shorthold Tenancy. This will grant you a tenancy to occupy the property for a fixed period of time.

• Ask for 24 hours to read through any contract.
• Do not sign anything you do not understand.
• If you are not sure about any conditions in the contract seek advice before signing. You can get free advice from the local Citizens Advice Bureau.

N.B. if you are sharing most tenancies will be joint and you therefore will be responsible jointly and severally with the other adult members of the household for all rent payments and damages throughout the tenancy.