Legal Rights When You Don`t Have a Tenancy Agreement
Living in a rented property without a tenancy agreement can be a source of anxiety for tenants who feel unsure about their legal rights. Even though the lack of a written agreement may seem to suggest otherwise, tenants do have rights that landlords are required to respect under the law. Here`s a brief guide to understanding what your legal rights are when you don`t have a tenancy agreement.
Occupancy rights
When you rent a property without a tenancy agreement, you have certain rights by default as an occupant. You have the right to live in the property undisturbed and without interference from the landlord. The landlord cannot enter the property without your consent or without giving you proper notice. If the landlord wants you to leave, they must give you notice in writing, and the notice period depends on how long you have been living in the property.
Rent
Even without a tenancy agreement, you still have a legal obligation to pay rent if you agreed to it verbally or by some other means. If you pay rent regularly, you have the right to a receipt or some other form of proof of payment. This can be important if there is a dispute with the landlord later on.
Utilities and repairs
The landlord is still responsible for making sure that the property is safe and habitable, even without a tenancy agreement. This includes providing basic amenities like running water and electricity. If there are any repairs required, the landlord must take care of them. You should report any problems to the landlord as soon as possible.
Deposit
If you paid a deposit, the landlord must protect it under a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme. This ensures that your deposit is protected in case the landlord refuses to return it when you leave the property. The landlord is also required to provide you with written information about the deposit scheme they use within 30 days of receiving your deposit.
Conclusion
In conclusion, even when you don`t have a tenancy agreement, you still have legal rights as a tenant. These include the right to live undisturbed in the property, the right to a safe and habitable dwelling, and the right to your deposit being protected. Make sure you are aware of your rights under the law and don`t be afraid to assert them if necessary.