Your tenancy is a legal agreement which can only be ended by you giving Fairoak Housing Association proper notice or by a court order. Remember, your tenancy does not end automatically when you move out of your property.
How do I end my tenancy?
You should give us at least 28 days (4 weeks) written notice that you want to end your tenancy.
You must remove all your belongings and leave the property clean. We may have to charge you for the cost of work if we have to put things right.
What happens once I have told you in writing?
Once we have received your notice we will arrange for your housing officer to visit you. They will inspect the property, noting any repairs that may need to be done and to tell you what you need to do before you leave.
If you move out before the end of the notice period you will still be charged for the full rent up to the date the tenancy ends. If you receive Housing benefit, payments will stop when you leave and you will be personally liable for any payments owed to us.
What if I have made changes to the property?
You must ensure that any damaged or missing fixtures and fittings are replaced and that the property is reasonably decorated before you leave. If you have carried out any alterations without Fairoak’s permission we may charge you for putting it back to its original condition or for repairing any damage you have caused.
What should I do if I owe rent?
You must discuss the situation straight away with your housing officer. You will be asked to clear any outstanding rent owed before you move. If this is not possible we must make an arrangement for you to continue paying the debt even after you have moved.
If you do not clear the debt or make an arrangement Fairoak will continue to take action to claim back monies owed. This may include legal action through the courts which if successful can affect your credit rating and in turn your future ability to take out a loan or hire purchase agreement.
When should I hand-in my keys?
At the end of your tenancy, or earlier if agreement is made in advance, you must return all your keys to:
Fairoak Housing Association, 155 Highgate, Kendal LA9 4EN
We may have to charge you for changing the locks if you do not return your keys.
What happens if I leave without giving notice?
We will consider the property as being abandoned and we will take legal steps to repossess it. Until we are granted possession by the court you will still be responsible for rent and any other charges.
End of tenancy checklist
Make sure that you have:
- Completed a termination notice form including your new address.
- Remove ALL your belongings from your home including, loft, garden, garage, sheds. We may charge you to dispose of any goods you leave behind.
- Leave the property clean and tidy-remember someone else will be moving in soon after you leave.
- Tell us which companies supply the gas and electric yo your property.
- That you have informed the utility companies and made a final meter readings to check your final bills.
- If you have a key for electricity or a card for the gas please hand them into the office when you hand in your keys.
- Tell other companies such as the TV licencing authority, telephone or satellite company, your bank, dentist, support provider and GP that you are moving.
- That you have re-directed your mail.
- That you have informed housing benefits and the benefits agency of your new address.
