What is the tenancy agreement?
This is the legal contract between you and the Association. By signing it you agree to abide by the conditions of the tenancy.
What if I am a joint tenant?
Joint tenants are jointly and individually responsible under the tenancy agreement. You have equal rights and obligations:
- Each tenant is responsible for the full rent being paid
- If there is a breach of the tenancy agreement, either tenant can be held responsible.
What if the association fails to carry out its duties?
As a first step contact the neighbourhood services team who will arrange to visit you and discuss the matter.
What If I break my tenancy agreement?
We will try to resolve the matter with you in the first instance. We will only take court action as a last resort.
Can I carry out improvements myself?
Yes. You can carry out alterations in your home provided you have written agreement. You’ll need to let us have full details of the work and who will carry it out. There are no restrictions provided the work does not make the property unsafe and does not affect the value or size. You might need to apply for planning permission and / or building regulations approval. You don’t need permission to redecorate internally. If in doubt ask first.
Will the Association pay for improvement?
Under the new Tenants Enhancement Charter, the association may be able to pay for up to half of any home improvements.
What happens if I move home?
If you decide to move you should do the following to enable the process to go smoothly:
- If you have removed any fittings without permission you must reinstate the property to its previous condition and replace any of the Association’s fixtures and fittings. We will have to charge you if we have to reinstate things or redecorate the property.
- Complete a tenancy termination form and give 4 weeks notice.
- Make time to see the NSO for a pre-void inspection so we can advise on the condition of the property.
- Remove all rubbish, furniture and belongings.
- Making good any damage to the property.
Can I have compensation for improvements I’ve made?
You may be eligible for compensation for certain types of improvements - provided you’ve had written agreement before you carried them out. Compensation would be paid only at the end of your tenancy.
Can I put up a shed or a greenhouse?
Yes, if it’s a small shed or greenhouse. If you want something larger you must get our written agreement and possibly planning permission.
What changes can I make in the garden?
You can carry out any planting you wish. However you must get permission before doing any landscaping or erecting a wall or fence.
Can I park in my garden?
Only if it’s got a car-hardstanding. If you have space for a hardstanding and want to put one in, you’ll need our written agreement and that of the highways authority. You’ll also need to arrange for the road kerb to be lowered.
Who’s responsible for repairing fences?
The association will maintain fences and boundary walls which were originally provided by the Association and which border communal areas and public rights of way.