Fiona M
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4 Posts
We rented out our property in Sep 2021 to joint tenants on an AST. On 26 Aug 23 one tenant gave notice to quit as their relationship has ended. I drafted the relevant paperwork for them both to sign. Shortly before I delivered the paperwork the other tenant explained domestic abuse was the reason for their split and that she would like to stay on until she can find somewhere more appropriate. They have a very young child together so I am trying to be sympathetic & helpful.
She assures me she has savings to cover the rent. I have asked for proof of this. She has also indicated that she has a guarantor if required. The existing deposit will be returned to her now ex partner as he paid it in originally - once we are happy with the state of the property on his leaving.
She has been in touch with a women's shelter & the council, both of whom have insisted she does not take her name off the currently tenancy agreement. She's currently unemployed as she packed in her job to work for her now ex partner.
We would like to try & help her in the short term (3 months) but I also want to protect our interests.
Should I insist she ends the current tenancy & issue her a 3 month contract - if that's even possible?
Should we verbally agree that she has until the end of January 2024 to vacate & issue a Section 21 at the end of November?
We possibly have new long term tenants for March/April next year so I want to try & ensure we can help the current tenant while also protecting our future.
I believe she is an honest, decent person but I'm also aware that in desperate times some people will do what is only good for them.
I have searched for similar situations here but haven't found anything so far. With Google no matter how you phrase the question it only gives advice from the view of the tenant.
Advice would be greatly appreciated. Many thanks.
