According to provided governmental data, renters stay put at a rental property for an average of 4 years. However, 81% of rental contracts are assured shorthold tenancies with a minimum fixed term of between 6 or 12 months. This is problematic as short tenancies have been shown to discourage tenants from challenging landlords for poor property standards; as they fear their tenancy agreement being terminated. As a result, tenants often feel insecure as they are unable to plan for the future, integrate or make long-term contributions within their local community.
However, renters who may be forced to leave their homes at short notice; will be given more security as the UK government proposes for longer tenancy agreements for the minimum of 3 years. This along with break clauses every 6 months will help renters settle into a rental property which they are able to call “home” and provides tenants with the choice to leave a tenancy agreement before the expiration of the minimum 3-year term. Interestingly, longer tenancy agreements with 6 months break clauses may, in fact, help landlords avoid costly vacant periods and provide greater flexibility when trying to regain possession of their property.
