UK Tenancy Laws & AST Basics
An Assured Shorthold Tenancy (AST) is the most common type of tenancy if you rent from a private landlord in England and Wales. Since 2019, the Tenant Fees Act has also limited the amount landlords can charge for deposits and banned most letting fees.
Key UK Compliance Points:
- Deposit Protection: Landlords must place the tenant's deposit in a government-backed tenancy deposit scheme (TDP) within 30 days of receiving it.
- Deposit Caps: Deposits are capped at 5 weeks' rent where the annual rent is less than £50,000.
- Right to Rent: Landlords must check that all tenants aged 18 and over can legally rent a residential property in England.
- Mandatory Documents: Landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the "How to rent" guide, an Gas Safety certificate, and an Energy Performance Certificate (EPC).