Breaking Terms of Tenancy Agreement: What You Need to Know
As a tenant, you have agreed to certain terms and conditions when you signed your tenancy agreement. These terms are put in place to protect both you and your landlord, and breaking them can have serious consequences. In this article, we will explore the different types of tenancy agreements and the consequences of breaking the terms.
What is a Tenancy Agreement?
A tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract between a tenant and a landlord. It outlines the terms of the tenancy, such as the rent amount, the length of the tenancy, and any restrictions or rules that the tenant must abide by. There are two main types of tenancy agreements: fixed-term tenancy agreements and periodic tenancy agreements.
Fixed-term tenancy agreements are for a set amount of time, usually six or twelve months. Once the term is up, the tenancy agreement may be renewed or terminated. Periodic tenancy agreements, on the other hand, are ongoing agreements that continue until either the tenant or the landlord gives notice to end the tenancy.
Breaking the Terms of a Tenancy Agreement
Breaking the terms of a tenancy agreement can have serious consequences for the tenant. Some of the most common terms that tenants break include:
1. Failing to pay rent on time – Rent is usually due on a set date each month, and failing to pay on time can result in late fees or even eviction.
2. Causing damage to the property – Tenants are responsible for taking care of the property and leaving it in the same condition as when they moved in. Damage caused by a tenant can result in repair costs or even legal action.
3. Subletting the property without permission – Tenants are not allowed to sublet the property without the landlord`s permission.
4. Breaching noise restrictions – Many tenancy agreements include restrictions on noise levels in the property, and breaching these restrictions can result in complaints from neighbors and legal action.
Consequences of Breaking a Tenancy Agreement
The consequences of breaking a tenancy agreement vary depending on the severity of the breach. In some cases, the landlord may issue a warning to the tenant and give them the opportunity to rectify the situation. In other cases, legal action may be taken to evict the tenant or recover damages.
If a tenant is evicted for breaking the terms of a tenancy agreement, this can have serious consequences for their future as a renter. An eviction will appear on their rental history and can make it difficult to find a new rental property in the future.
Conclusion
As a tenant, it is important to understand the terms of your tenancy agreement and to abide by them. Breaking the terms can have serious consequences, including legal action and eviction. If you are unsure about any of the terms of your tenancy agreement, it is important to speak to your landlord or a legal professional for advice.