Giving notice on a rented house

[kieranbennett]

Need a bit of advice, I've just accepted a new job, but unfortunately I need to move to do it. I thought (perhaps incorrectly) that I would be able to give 1 months notice on my current place, which, in terms of timing, would be about perfect for starting the new job.

However a call to my letting agent has now informed me that this isn't the case.

Apparently as I didn't have a termination agreement (not the exact phrase the agent used, but I can't remember exactly what she said) in place then I would be at the mercy of the landlord for terminating early.

She has told me that I should be able to leave when I want to, but I will be charged a early termination fee (which she is going to discuss with the landlord) which will be at the landlord discretion.

Now I feel quite guilty about having to leave early (although my rent on the house is very cheap for the market, so I’m sure they will be able to get more from a new tenant) but the job is a huge opportunity for me, and I thought that one of the benefits of renting was its flexibility.

Just want some advise on what my rights are? Is there a limit to how much they can charge me for leaving, I'm happy to pay a reasonable amount (although I haven't defined what that is yet) but don't want to get ripped off?

Cheers

[TheCarpetCleaner]

Are you on as AST (assured shorthold tenancy) or a monthly rolling contract due to the expiration of the AST?

[kieranbennett]

I'm on AST, i signed a 12 month extension only 3 months ago

[TheCarpetCleaner]

in that case, you are liable for the remaining 9 months.

[Rower]

kieranbennett said:

I'm on AST, i signed a 12 month extension only 3 months ago

I assume that was for a new lease not just agreeing to the present tenancy continuing on a ' Held over basis' ? If the former just check that there is not a 6 month break clause that can use( 2 months notice is still required after 4 months at the earliest ). If the latter you will need to give 2 months notice.

Basically you need to try and negotiate your way out of the tenancy but however you look at it you have give 2 months notice.