Renewing Your Tenancy Agreement: A guide for tenants
Those creaky floorboards used to drive you nuts, but now they just feel like home. Your initial tenancy agreement is nearing its end, and a decision looms – do you stay put or explore new horizons?
At Jacobs Steel, we know navigating tenancy renewals can feel like navigating a maze. This guide will equip you with the knowledge you need to make an informed choice about extending your stay.
Fixed vs. flexible: demystifying tenancy agreements
First things first, let’s clear up some jargon. There are two main types of tenancies in the UK: fixed-term and periodic. Most initial agreements are fixed-term, lasting a specific timeframe (usually 6 or 12 months). Once this period ends, the tenancy automatically becomes periodic, typically running month-to-month.
This means while your rights and responsibilities (and your landlord’s) remain in place, there’s more flexibility to end the tenancy for both parties.
Should you renew? Weighing the options
Renewing your tenancy essentially means signing a brand new fixed-term contract. This offers both you and your landlord stability and peace of mind. Here’s what to consider:
Rent adjustments
Let’s be honest, rent rarely stays the same forever. Research rental trends in your area (Rightmove or Zoopla are great resources) to get a sense of a reasonable increase. If the proposed hike feels excessive, don’t hesitate to politely negotiate with your landlord.
The average monthly private rent in Worthing was £1,245 in July 2024. This was an increase from £1,173 in July 2023, a 6.1% rise. And in Brighton and Hove, the average monthly private rent has seen a 5.9% rise year-on-year. Use these figures to work out how much your rent could increase by.
Review and Refine
Don’t just breeze through the new agreement! Double-check everything – your contact details, tenancy duration, and, of course, the rent amount. This is also your chance to address any lingering issues you might have faced during the previous term, like repairs or maintenance concerns.
Perhaps you’ve dreamt of adding a furry friend to your life, or maybe a dedicated parking space would be a game-changer. Now’s the time to discuss these changes with your landlord and see if they’re open to amending the agreement.
Moving on? Your rights remain
Renewing your tenancy isn’t your only option! If the urge to explore is strong, or your needs have changed, of course you’re entitled to find a new place. Just ensure you give your landlord the appropriate notice period, as outlined in your tenancy agreement (typically two months for a periodic tenancy).
You’ll also need to be mindful that you are required to leave the property how you found it, unless you agree otherwise with your landlord. This includes things like making good where you’ve put nails or screws into the wall, returning decorated rooms to how you found them and paying for a professional deep clean.
Schedule a check-out appointment with your landlord or letting agent to document the property’s condition on your move-out day. Additionally, you’ll need to inform the local council about your move, arrange to settle and transfer or terminate your utility accounts (gas, electricity, water, etc.) and set up a mail redirection service.
If anything feels unclear, the government website offers a wealth of information on tenant rights and responsibilities (link included), or you can reach out to organisations like Propertymark for further guidance. Of course, if Jacobs Steel manage the rental, we’ll be more than happy to guide you through the process of either renewing your tenancy or departing the property.
Ultimately, the decision to renew your tenancy agreement is a personal one. By weighing the pros and cons, considering the points above, and openly communicating with your landlord, you’ll be well-equipped to make the best choice for your current situation.
