Forum spotlight: How to end a joint tenancy

A landlord took to our forum to ask about what to do about joint tenants, a couple, who have split up. One of the tenants is moving out and the landlord waned to know the correct procedure as regards the tenancy.

The responses

The first person to reply was a frequent user of the forum, as well as an experienced landlord.

They started by reminding our member that because the tenancy is joint, both tenants are responsible for the rent being paid, until they both leave and the tenancy is ended.

They suggested that our landlord could help the tenants by requesting they provide a notice to quit. This would also give the tenants time to find somewhere else to live, should they wish to move on - or allow a single tenant to take on the tenancy alone.

The advice from our team

Then, an advisor in our landlord support team joined the thread.

They thanked other members for their advice and highlighted a few more things that our landlord could consider, explaining:

1. As it's a joint tenancy, if one tenant gives notice that will end the tenancy for both.

2. If the landlord decides to commence a new tenancy with the remaining tenant, it's best to verify that they can afford the rent on their own. If they are in receipt of benefits they will likely need confirmation from DWP regarding their housing allowance, as in some cases the tenant will not receive the full rent and will have to pay a top up.

3. In the event that the tenants decide to completely surrender the tenancy, the landlord will need to go through the usual end of tenancy steps , providing the correct notice has been issued, as set out here.

More information on how landlords can check the remaining tenant can afford the rent can be found here.

More information