Are you a new tenant who has never rented before? Or perhaps you need a little more insight into tenancies? Either way, we know that tenancy jargon can be tricky, so we wanted to help break it down so that you can feel more confident. This blog is: Tenancy jargon explained.
The UK rental market is thriving, with many properties not staying on the market for very long. As a tenant, you’ve probably already found that you have to be quick to avoid missing out. Let’s get straight into tenancy jargon and what it really means.
Assured Shorthold Tenancy – AST
This is the most common type of tenancy in the UK. It is usually a 6 or 12 month contract, also known as a ‘fixed term tenancy’. These rules are set to change from May 2026, where all ASTs will become periodic tenancies under the Renters’ Rights Act.
Periodic tenancy
A periodic tenancy is also known as a rolling tenancy. It means there is no set time outlined within a contract. However, you are still required to give notice to leave, which should be outlined in your agreement.
Tenancy agreement
Used to outline the terms of the tenancy, e.g. how long it runs for, how much you will pay, how much notice you should give and more. Both the tenant and landlord should refer to the legally binding document throughout the rental agreement.
HMO – House in Multiple Occupation
A HMO is a house which is shared by more than 3 people from different households. While they have their own bedroom space, they will often share facilities, such as a kitchen and bathroom.
Tenancy deposit
All tenants are required to pay a deposit when they choose to rent a property, unless otherwise stated. Usually, the deposit is between 5 and 6 week’s rent. At the end of the tenancy, a check out will be completed, which assesses the condition of the rental property compared to when you moved in. If damage is found, excluding wear and tear, this can be paid for using the deposit.
All deposits must be protected by a Deposit Protection Scheme. You may also be asked to pay a holding deposit to secure the property.
Inventory
An inventory is a list, usually accompanied by photographs which is completed at the start, throughout and the end of the tenancy. This enables the letting agent to assess the condition of the residential property and any furniture.
Break clause
A break clause is used to define the termination of a contract before the agreed date. For example, if you sign up for 12 months but leave the tenancy early after 6. Not all agreements will include a break clause.
EPC – Energy Performance Certificate
All properties must have one of these and it’s important to consider it when choosing somewhere to live. An EPC rating closer to A indicates that the home is energy efficient, and lower may mean that you pay more for bills. Some landlords may utilise energy saving home improvements to help lower energy bills.
Other jargon to consider from your tenancy agreement
- Rent arrears: Missed payments and unpaid rent
- Check-in: Entering a property, photos taken by letting agent to assess condition
- Check-out: Leaving a property, photos taken by letting agent to assess condition
- Notice period: How much notice you must give before you plan to leave the rented property
- Fixtures and fittings: Items in the property which are included, but non-structural, e.g. carpets
- Managing agent: The company responsible for organising the rental. Usually residential letting agents
We hope this jargon buster has been helpful. Intus Lettings is a nationwide agency providing first class support for tenants and landlords. We aim to put the enjoyment back into the lettings process and are always here to answer any questions you have.
Are you thinking about moving somewhere new and want a trusted letting agent by your side? Contact us to see what properties we have available. We will be more than happy to help.
