Key Differences Between AST, Assured, and Non-Assured Tenancies _ Tenants and Landlords

Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST)

• Most Common: Used primarily for residential properties.
• Fixed Term: Typically 6-12 months; renewable.
• Landlord's Right to Possession: Can regain possession at the end of the fixed term with two months' notice (Section 21 notice).
• Deposit Protection: Landlord must protect the tenant’s deposit in a government-approved scheme.
• Rent Increase: Can increase rent after the fixed term, typically through a new agreement or with proper notice.

Assured Tenancy

• Long-Term Security: Tenant can live indefinitely as long as terms are followed.
• Rent Control: Landlord can only increase rent under specific conditions, often requiring tenant agreement or tribunal approval.
• Eviction: Landlord can only evict for specific reasons, such as rent arrears or significant breaches of the agreement.
• Possession: Landlord has limited ability to regain possession, often only with court approval.

Non-Assured Tenancy

• Special Circumstances: Used when criteria for an AST aren’t met (e.g., low rent, landlord lives in the building but doesn’t share living space).
• Limited Protection: Tenant has less security compared to AST.
• Flexible Notice: Landlord can regain possession with minimal notice, typically aligned with the rental payment period.
• Rent Increase: Landlord has more freedom to increase rent, often with less stringent notice requirements.