Connswater Homes Tenant Handbook

Your Tenancy Agreement If you accept an offer of housing with Connswater Homes you will be asked to sign a Tenancy Agreement. If it is a joint or shared tenancy then all partes MUST sign the document. This is a very important legal document, which is signed by both the tenant(s) and Connswater Homes. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of both the tenant and landlord. Security of Tenure • You are entitled to live in your home for as long as you want. • A tenancy can be terminated by giving 28 days written notice to the Association. • If you do not pay your rent on time, or break your tenancy agreement, your tenancy may be at risk. In such circumstances, the Association may commence proceedings for possession of your home. Matrimonial Home If you are living together in the same home, your spouse or partner may have equal rights to the home should the relationship break down. In such cases you should speak with a professional advice agency such as the Housing Rights Service. Introductory Tenancies We give all new tenants a trial period of 12 months to ensure that they adhere to the tenancy agreement, look after their home and live peacefully with neighbours. This trial period is called the Introductory Tenancy. If your Introductory Tenancy period is problem free you will go on to become a secure tenant. As an Introductory Tenant, the law does not give you the right to: • Take in lodgers • Sub-let part of the property • Make improvements • Exchange your home with another tenant You do not have all the rights of a Secure Tenant, and could be evicted more quickly if you break the tenancy agreement. Housing Rights Service, Tel: 028 9024 5640

YOUR TENANCY AGREEMENT

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