An assured shorthold tenancy (AST) is a type of tenancy agreement that is commonly used for residential rental properties in the UK. ASTs are governed by the Housing Act 1988 and give the tenant the right to occupy the property for a fixed period of time, usually six or twelve months.
Under an AST, the landlord has the right to regain possession of the property at the end of the fixed term, provided they give the tenant the required notice period. The landlord is also able to regain possession of the property during the fixed term if the tenant breaches the terms of the tenancy agreement, such as by failing to pay the rent or by causing damage to the property.
ASTs offer landlords a degree of security and flexibility, as they can regain possession of the property at the end of the fixed term if they do not want to continue the tenancy. At the same time, ASTs provide tenants with the right to occupy the property for a fixed period of time and offer some protection against eviction.
