Document Actions
If I need to move out before the end of an assured shorthold tenancy am I still responsible for paying the rent to the landlord for the duration of the agreement?
I am a tenant with an Assured Shorthold Tenancy agreement. The term commenced 1st August 2007 and expires on 31 July 2008. The rent is £1100 pcm. I had agreed to pay in two instalments of 6600 pounds every 6 months. Our circumstances have changed and we need to move out. I informed the landlord in early December intending to move out by the 1st February. The landlord is saying that I have to pay rent during any time after this date that the house remains unoccupied until a replacement tenant can be found. They have also asked that I pay approximately one month's rent administration costs (incurred by the agent) to re-advertise and relet. I am finding these costs difficult to meet and would really value any advice you can give in this matter. Am I truly liable for the costs mentioned above??
The tenancy agreement is a contract between you and the landlord. Unfortunately if you breach the contract then you must meet the landlord's costs and losses.
However your landlord is under a duty to limit his losses as much as reasonably possible. If you can find a repalcement tenant then the landlord should accept them provided they are a reasonable prospect. If your landlord unreasonably refuses then you can refuse to meet his costs.
Important! Ask your own free questions... Questions are answered accurately at the time they are posted but the law can change or your circumstances may differ in an important but not obvious way from those mentioned. For fast, free and up-to-date personal legal advice direct to your inbox about your own individual case ask Law Answers your own free legal question.
