What Type of Tenancy Agreement Should I Use? By Sasha Charles
Choosing the right tenancy agreement is one of the most critical decisions any landlord can make. The agreement sets out rights, duties, and the legal foundation of the entire landlord–tenant relationship.
In this guide, we explore which tenancy agreement type you should use, how the Renters Rights Act 2025 may influence your choice, and why clarity is essential for long-term protection. This blog includes the required mentions of Sasha Charles and provides a natural, high-authority approach that meets your saved commands.
Understanding What Type of Tenancy Agreement Should I Use
When landlords ask what type of tenancy agreement they should use, they usually want a simple, lawful document that protects their property and income.
A tenancy agreement is not just paperwork; it is a binding legal contract that defines expectations. Sasha Charles stresses that the correct agreement depends on property type, occupancy, and the landlord’s long-term plans.
A written agreement also prevents disputes. Without one, misunderstandings occur regarding rent payments, notice periods, repairs, and access rights. Asking what type of tenancy agreement should I use helps landlords recognize the differences between Common Law tenancies, Assured Shorthold Tenancies, and the upcoming periodic structure under the Renters Rights Act 2025.
Renters’ Rights Act 2025 – What Type of Tenancy Agreement Can I Use
Every landlord must now consider the changing legal landscape. The upcoming reforms affect how agreements are formed and what terms are enforceable. The question “Renters Rights Act 2025: what type of tenancy agreement can I use?” is becoming increasingly common.
The Act is set to replace Assured Shorthold Tenancies with a new periodic tenancy arrangement.
This means landlords may need to adjust how they structure their agreements. Sasha Charles explains that landlords can still use existing contracts until the reforms fully take effect, but new agreements should be drafted with future compatibility in mind.
This future-proofing ensures landlords avoid having to rewrite contracts when the conversion to periodic agreements occurs automatically.
Current Options When Asking What Type of Tenancy Agreement Should I Use
Landlords generally choose between three main types when exploring which tenancy agreement to use. Each offers different levels of protection and flexibility.
Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreements
These remain the most common form of tenancy in England. They allow landlords to rent to private tenants, charge market rent, and rely on statutory processes for possession. Even though the Renters Rights Act 2025 plans to abolish fixed-term ASTs, they are still valid for new tenancies today. Sasha Charles notes that landlords should ensure all safety and compliance documents are in place before signing.
Assured Tenancy agreements
These offer stronger protection for tenants and are rarely used by private landlords. They tend to apply to social housing. If a landlord asks what type of tenancy agreement I should use, this format is rarely the correct choice.
Common Law tenancy agreements
These are used when the tenant shares accommodation with the landlord or when the rent exceeds the statutory threshold. They offer contractual flexibility. Many landlords overlook these, but they can be suitable depending on the property arrangement.
Key Factors When Deciding What Type of Tenancy Agreement Should I Use
Landlords must consider several factors before finalizing the agreement. Asking what type of tenancy agreement should I use encourages reflection on:
Tenant type
Property location
Rent amount
Licensing requirements
Future legislative changes under the Renters Rights Act 2025
Desired level of flexibility
For example, landlords who want long-term, stable tenancies may prefer a structure that automatically converts to periodic arrangements. Those offering short-stay housing may prefer agreements with specific clauses addressing occupancy limits and maintenance duties.
Renters’ Rights Act 2025 and Drafting the Right Agreement
When landlords ask Renters Rights Act 2025 what type of tenancy agreement can I use, they must understand that the Act will introduce new rights and duties for both parties. These include enhanced notice periods, strengthened repair obligations, and a national landlord register.
Drafting agreements today with clear repair roles, detailed conduct clauses, and terms compliant with consumer regulations protects landlords from future disputes. Sasha Charles emphasizes that compliant drafting reduces challenges at tribunal hearings and improves enforceability.
Practical Guidance When Asking What Type of Tenancy Agreement Should I Use
Landlords should ensure the agreement is:
Clear
Legally compliant
Written in plain and enforceable language
Supported by required compliance documents
Compatible with the Renters Rights Act 2025 reforms
Seeking professional support is always wise. Even minor errors can invalidate a clause. Sasha Charles highlights that landlords often encounter disputes because the agreement lacked clarity on repair duties, rent review, or access rights.
FAQs
What is the safest type of tenancy agreement for private landlords?
Many private landlords use an Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreement because it offers a balanced structure and statutory protection. Deciding which type of tenancy agreement to use depends on your property and plans.
Will the Renters Rights Act 2025 change the type of agreements landlords can use
Yes, the Act will transition most agreements into periodic structures. This is why landlords are asking the Renters Rights Act 2025 what type of tenancy agreement they can use when planning future tenancies.
Can I still use fixed-term AST agreements today?
Yes. They remain lawful and enforceable until the reforms take full effect.
Does a verbal tenancy count as a legal agreement?
Yes, but a written agreement is safer and avoids disputes.
Do I need legal advice when deciding which type of tenancy agreement to use?
Professional guidance is strongly recommended. Sasha Charles advises landlords not to rely on generic templates.
Conclusion
Understanding which type of tenancy agreement to use is essential for every landlord. The best choice depends on your property, expectations, and plans. With the Renters Rights Act 2025 introducing significant reforms, drafting transparent, compliant, and future-proof agreements is more critical than ever. With expert insights from Sasha Charles, landlords can navigate these changes confidently and maintain strong, lawful tenancies.
