Assured shorthold (starter) tenancy

Your assured shorthold starter tenancy agreement is a legal contract. It sets out your rights and responsibilities as the tenant, and our rights and responsibilities as your landlord.

All new residents – except those who are coming to us from another housing association or council tenancy – are provided with a starter tenancy. This has less security and rights than a full assured tenancy for the first 12 months so we can make sure you are able to sustain the tenancy properly and meet all its responsibilities. If this is the case, the starter tenancy is converted to a full assured tenancy after 12 months.

If the tenancy has not been satisfactorily maintained then we have two options. We will either extend the starter period for another six months, or we will bring it to an end by serving a legal notice.

By signing the tenancy agreement, you agree that you understand and accept all of the rights and responsibilities for your new property.

Your tenancy agreement will include details about the address, the rent charged, what you can expect from us and what we expect from you. We will discuss this with you when you sign the agreement. If you are not sure about any part of your tenancy agreement, even if it is after you have moved in to your new property, please contact your housing office.

We can also provide tenancy agreements in different languages and formats, such as Braille. If you would like your tenancy agreement or the conditions booklet in a different format, please contact your area housing office.

You should keep your copy of the tenancy agreement somewhere safe because you may need it in the future. This is especially important if you receive any state benefits.

Key points of your tenancy

• You do not have the right to exchange your house with another tenant from a council or another registered social landlord. You cannot take in lodgers, or claim compensation for improvements you have made to the property. You also do not have the right to buy your home during the starter tenancy period. All of these rights do become available once the starter period has been completed satisfactorily.
• You will be kept informed about the progress of your starter tenancy period. We will provide you with support and  advice to make sure you successfully complete the starter period.
• If you have any concerns or queries about your tenancy please contact your local housing office.