In 2009, some 13 years ago, as I write, I started the first series on this blog, my ‘Urban Myths’ series.
It was fun to write and quite popular too. In it, I examined one at a time, the various misconceptions around landlord and tenant law, some of which persist for years.
They tend to be
- Hangovers from past laws which are no more
- Misunderstandings (perhaps based on a misreading of the law), or just
- Wishful thinking!
Most of the Urban Myth posts were written in about 2010, and some of the misconceptions are still with us! However, I think it is time the series was rewritten and brought up to date.
So over the next few weeks, I will be republishing them.
If you have any thoughts, or suggestions for Urban Myths, I could address, please put them in the comments box below.
Excellent idea! One urban myth from the tenants’ side is the “If I don’t like the property / fall out with my partner or flatmate(s) / want to move, I can just give notice and move out.” Well, no, not if you’re in a fixed term. And even less if it’s a fixed term with joint liability. Linked to this one is the assumption that just moving out and handing back keys ends one’s rent liability.
Also, the fact that a fixed term AST does not automatically end; so just as it’s not necessary to renew (which you did cover in the original series) it may also be necessary for the tenants to be organised in case they don’t want/need to stay beyond the end of the fixed term: check tenancy agreement for tenant notice requirements, and give notice, don’t wait for the agent/landlord to do it.
We will be looking at those!
That’s great, thanks! Enjoyed the previous series, looking forward to the updates. All very helpful.