A house share tenancy agreement is a legally binding contract between a landlord (or property owner) and multiple tenants who occupy different rooms within a shared property. This document outlines the terms and conditions of the tenancy, including rent payments, responsibilities, and the rights and obligations of both parties.
A well-drafted tenancy agreement is crucial for a smooth and harmonious living experience for all parties involved. It provides clarity, minimizes disputes, and ensures legal protection for both landlords and tenants.
Essential Clauses for a House Share Tenancy Agreement
Landlord/Property Owner: Full Name and Contact Information
Tenants: Full Name and Contact Information for each individual tenant
2. Property Description
Full Address: Include street number, street name, city, postcode, and any relevant apartment or unit numbers.
Description of the Property: Briefly describe the property, including the number of bedrooms, bathrooms, shared spaces (kitchen, living room, garden), and any significant features.
Inventory: Acknowledge the existence of an inventory report detailing the condition of the property and its contents at the start of the tenancy.
Joint Inspection: Include a clause for a joint inspection of the property with all tenants to agree on the inventory and condition report.
7. Use of the Property
Permitted Use: Specify the permitted use of the property (e.g., residential only).
Prohibited Use: Outline any prohibited activities, such as subletting, keeping pets without prior written consent, or conducting business from the property.
8. Utilities and Services
Utility Bills:
Allocation of Costs: Clearly define how utility bills (e.g., gas, electricity, water, internet) will be divided among tenants.
Meter Readings: Specify who is responsible for taking and submitting meter readings.
Council Tax: Indicate who is responsible for paying Council Tax.
Other Services: Mention any other services included in the rent (e.g., bin collection, gardening) or not included (e.g., TV license).
9. Maintenance and Repairs
Landlord’s Responsibilities: Outline the landlord’s responsibilities for repairs and maintenance, such as structural repairs, plumbing issues, and electrical faults.
Tenant’s Responsibilities: Specify the tenants’ responsibilities for maintaining the property, such as minor repairs, cleaning, and reporting any damage.
10. Access and Entry
Landlord’s Right of Entry:
Access for Repairs: Grant the landlord reasonable access to the property for repairs and maintenance.
Viewings: Allow the landlord reasonable notice for viewing the property for potential new tenants.
Emergency Access: Allow the landlord access in case of emergency.
11. Noise and Disturbance
Quiet Enjoyment: Acknowledge the right of all tenants to the quiet enjoyment of the property.
Noise Restrictions: Establish reasonable noise restrictions to prevent disturbance to other tenants and neighbors.
12. Anti-Social Behaviour
Prohibition of Anti-Social Behaviour: Prohibit any anti-social behavior, such as drug use, excessive noise, and harassment of other tenants or neighbors.
13. Insurance
Landlord Insurance:
Requirement: Indicate whether the landlord requires the property to be insured.
Tenant’s Contents Insurance: Encourage tenants to obtain contents insurance for their personal belongings.
14. Dispute Resolution
Mediation: Include a clause encouraging the resolution of disputes through mediation or other alternative dispute resolution methods.
15. Governing Law
Applicable Law: Specify the law that governs the tenancy agreement (e.g., English law).
16. Notices
Method of Service: Specify the acceptable methods for serving notices (e.g., in writing by post, email).
17. Entire Agreement
Entire Agreement Clause: State that the tenancy agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties and supersedes any prior or contemporaneous communications or representations.
18. Severability
Severability Clause:
Invalid Provisions: State that if any provision of the tenancy agreement is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.
19. Signatures
Signatures:
Landlord’s Signature: Include a space for the landlord to sign and date the agreement.
Tenants’ Signatures: Include a space for each tenant to sign and date the agreement.
Design Considerations for a Professional Agreement
Clear and Concise Language: Use plain English and avoid legal jargon where possible.
Professional Formatting:
Font: Choose a professional and easy-to-read font (e.g., Arial, Times New Roman, Calibri).
Font Size: Use a consistent font size throughout the document.
Headings and Subheadings: Use clear and concise headings and subheadings to improve readability.
Paragraph Formatting: Justify paragraphs for a more polished look.
Spacing: Use consistent spacing between lines and paragraphs.
Layout and Structure:
Logical Flow: Present the information in a logical and easy-to-follow order.
Use of White Space: Use white space effectively to break up the text and improve readability.
Tables: Use tables to present information clearly and concisely (e.g., rent payment schedule, utility cost allocation).
Branding (Optional):
letterhead: If applicable, include the landlord’s or property management company’s letterhead.
Logo: If applicable, include a professional logo.
By carefully drafting a comprehensive and professional house share tenancy agreement, landlords and tenants can establish a clear understanding of their rights and responsibilities, minimize potential disputes, and ensure a positive and harmonious living experience for all parties involved.
